Abstract:
Wireworm is the common name for the larvae of click beetles (Coleoptera: Family Elateridae). The adults do little or no damage, although there are some anecdotal reports that they can damage certain crops (e.g., grapes and stone fruits) by feeding on flowers. However, larval wireworms are among the most destructive of soil insect pests. They are important pests of potatoes and other crops, including corn, cereals, and carrots. Less frequently attacked are melons, beet roots, and strawberry fruits. Wireworms can also damage germinating seeds, but transplants are generally less susceptible. Their importance as crop pests seems to be increasing. This publication reviews the wireworm literature and provides information on wireworm biology, monitoring, risk assessment, and nonchemical control options that can be integrated
into a variety of production systems.
