
Heteronychus arator
The African black beetle is a serious pest of turfgrass, pastures, and various crops. Adult beetles are black, robust, and about 12–15 mm long. They lay eggs in the soil, and their larvae, commonly referred to as “white grubs,” feed on turfgrass roots, leading to poor growth, wilting, and eventual plant death. The damage is particularly noticeable in warm months when larvae are most active. Infestations are often identified by yellowing patches of grass that can be easily pulled up due to root loss. Preventative treatments and biological controls, such as entomopathogenic nematodes, can help manage populations.
Control Options:
Adult: Envu Merit, Envu Tempo Xtra, Indigo Proforce Rumbler 100sc, Indigo Proforce Scarlet Trio, Syngenta Spinner.
Larvae: Envu Tetrino, Indigo Proforce Echelon Duo, Indigo Proforce Recruit, Indigo Proforce Scarlet Trio, Syngenta Acelepryn, Syngenta Spinner, Turf Culture Columbus, Turf Culture Tirem 200sc.
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