Grapevine beetle

The grapevine beetle, Pelidnota punctata, also known as Spotted June Beetle or the Spotted Pelidnota, is a member of the subfamily Rutelinae of the Scarab beetle family. Grapevine beetles are common in the north and central United States and Eastern Canada, but do relatively little damage to their host plants.

The adult beetle is approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) long, off-yellow, with three spots running down each side. Fine black lines divide the edges of its elytra. At other times, the beetle may have been known as Pelidnota lutea.

Habitat and Diet

The beetle lives in the eastern coast of North America, as well as Florida, Nebraska and north western Missouri. It lives, like many beetles, in forests, and is mostly seen during the summer. It is also seen in vineyards and gardens.

The adult beetle eats the leaves and fruit of grapevines, both wild and cultivated, although it is not normally a major pest of vineyards.

Beetle eggs are laid in rotten wood or tree stumps, where they hatch into larvae. Larvae feed on the rotting wood and pupate to become adults from May to September.

References

External links

• Bug Guide
• Grapevine Beetle diagnostic reference photos and information
• Virginia Fruit page