Japanese Beetles in Central Arkansas
Japanese beetles pose a significant threat to lawns, landscapes, and ornamental plants across the United States. These pests damage to turf, trees, shrubs, flowers, and crops, with adults feeding on over 300 plant species while grubs primarily consume grass roots. They first appeared in the U.S. in 1916 in New Jersey and have since spread to most states east of the Mississippi River.
Japanese Beetle Habitat
These beetles are not picky eaters and can live anywhere with ample foliage. They thrive in diverse environments, including farms, cities, and residential gardens. Especially prevalent in roses, beans, grapes, and raspberries, Japanese beetles have a voracious appetite and are most active on warm sunny days. They feed in groups under direct sunlight and start eating at the top of plants, gradually working their way down. The ability of adult beetles to fly enables them to move easily throughout a homeowner’s landscape.
Japanese Beetle Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Japanese beetles have strong chewing mouthparts designed for eating leaves but do not bite humans. The economic impact of their damage and control measures in the U.S. is over $460 million annually. Their distinctive feeding pattern creates easily recognizable damage, as they consume the soft tissue between leaf veins, leaving behind a skeletonized, lace-like pattern. Grubs damage grass by feeding on roots during their development in the soil, resulting in brown patches of dead or dying grass that can be easily pulled up due to weakened roots.
If you suspect a Japanese beetle infestation, contact a local beetle control expert.
