Egg - The minute, oval to elongate egg is white.
Larva - When fully grown, the white, brown-headed larva is 3.2 to 5.0 mm long. It has 3 pairs of tiny legs near its head.
Pupa - The tiny white pupa is approximately the same size and shape as the adult.
Host Plants - Striped flea beetles infest many crucifers but prefer mustard, turnip, radish, and related weeds.
Damage - Although larvae feed on the roots of host plants, the primary damage is caused by adult beetles feeding on foliage. Beetles make small pits in leaves. The remaining thin layers of tissue eventually dry up and fall away leaving small "shot holes" in the foliage. This type of injury is capable of killing young plants. In addition, beetles may act as vectors of plant disease.
Life History - Striped flea beetles overwinter among debris in and around fields. Emerging early in spring, they attack seedlings and young plants. Eggs are deposited in tiny crevices gnawed out of the base of host plant stems. About 10 days later, grubs hatch from the eggs and move into the soil to attack roots. After feeding for 3 or 4 weeks, the larvae pupate for 7 to 10 days. A new generation of beetles then emerges. There are at least two generations each year in North Carolina.
Chemical treatments for control of flea beetles should be applied as needed. For recommended insecticides and rates, consult the current North Carolina Agricultural Chemicals Manual.
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