Holotrichia

Holotrichia is a genus of chafers, commonly known as white grubs, belonging to the scarab beetle family Scarabaeidae. These beetles are widely distributed across various continents, with numerous species found in Asia, Europe, and North America. The larvae of Holotrichia beetles are known as white grubs and are a significant pest in agricultural and horticultural settings.

Adult Holotrichia beetles are typically brown or black and possess a robust body. They emerge from the soil, often after rainfall, and are attracted to light. Their feeding habits as adults are generally less destructive than those of their larval stage, though they may consume foliage or fruits of certain plants.

The larval stage, the white grub, is C-shaped and lives underground. It is characterized by a pale, fleshy body and dark mouthparts. White grubs are voracious feeders, primarily consuming the roots of grasses, crops, and ornamental plants. This root damage can lead to wilting, stunting, and even the death of plants, making them a considerable economic concern for farmers and gardeners. The grub stage can last for one to several years, depending on the species and environmental conditions, before pupation and metamorphosis into an adult beetle. Control methods for Holotrichia grubs often involve biological or chemical insecticides, as well as cultural practices aimed at disrupting their life cycle.