flea Beetle
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Flea Beetle .jpg) Small shiny black beetles about 1/8in(3mm)long , that jump when disturbed. The flea beetle hibernates in mulches and plant debris. Feeding starts in spring. Eggs are laid in soil near susceptible plants in late spring and early summer. There is only one generation per year. Flea beetles are worldwide in distribution.Biology- Adults flea beetles generally overwinter and trash around fields of host plants, and move to weeds and plant beds in early spring and later to transplanted vegetables and garden plants. They are most destructive to young plants. They lay eggs scattered on the soil beneath host plants. Eggs hatch in about 10 days, and the slender, white larvae feed on and tunnel in underground stems, roots and/or tubers for 3 to 4 weeks. There are usually 3 instars. Pupae usually remain in the soil for 7 to 10 days until adults emerge and the cycle is completed. There are 3 or more generations of flea beetles per year.  Susceptible Plants- Brassicas such as radish, rutabaga, turnip, arugula, and ornamental brassicas, particularly when seedlings. Flea beetle also effects such plants as nasturtium, alyssum, and godetia. Symptoms- during spring and summer adult flea beetles eat small holes in leaves and stems. A severe attack will kill young plants. Damage is always more severe in dry weather. Larvae feed on plant roots or leaf mines. Prevention and Control- Keeping fields free of weeds is important. Late planting also favors growth of host plants over establishment of flea beetles Encourage quick, vigorous seedling growth. Sow at the right time, prepare the site well and never let plant lack water. Sow under row covers Biological Control- Beneficial Nematodes - H. bacteriophora , Praying Mantis Egg CasesTenodera aridifolia Insecticidal Control - Safer® Brand BioNeem Insecticide
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