Status in Nebraska:
In 1997,
65 oat and wheat fields were surveyed during June in 17 Nebraska counties
for a cereal leaf beetle survey. Cereal leaf beetle larvae were found in
one field in Richardson County. This was the first find of cereal leaf
beetle in Nebraska.
In 1998, 73 oat and wheat fields were surveyed in 19 Nebraska counties.
All fields were negative for cereal leaf beetle.
In 1999, 40 oat and wheat fields were surveyed in 10 Nebraska counties.
All fields were negative for cereal leaf beetle.
Distribution:
This insect is found in parts of the northwestern
and northeastern United States. It is currently moving into the eastern
Midwest.
Origin and Time of Introduction:
This
insect is native to Europe and Asia and has been a serious pest
of cereal crops for certain areas of Europe for many years before coming
to the U.S. Examples of serious losses are recorded in Hungary as
long ago as 1891. Late varieties of wheat were the most affected. The first
identification of this insect in the U.S. was made on July 17, 1962, from
specimens collected in Berrien County MI.
Common Characteristics:
Adult beetles are approximately ¼ inch
long and have metallic looking, bluish black heads and wing covers.
The thorax and legs are a rust-red in color.
Environmental Impact:
Adult beetles defoliate cereal and grain plants
and can cause a reduction in yield by as much as 45% (when defoliation
is near 100%).
Management:
Insecticide applications are beneficial for control.
A wasp will parasitize the eggs (Anaphes flavipes) and there are
more promising biological control agents.
