Phyllophaga

Phyllophaga is a genus of scarab beetles in the family Scarabaeidae, subfamily Melolonthinae. The group includes hundreds of species commonly known as May beetles or June beetles. They are widespread in temperate regions of North America, Europe, and parts of Asia and Africa, with many species notable as agricultural or turf pests.

Adults are typically brown to reddish-brown and range in size from about 12 to 25 millimeters. They have robust bodies and antennae with lamellate clubs. Most species are nocturnal and attracted to lights. The larvae, commonly called white grubs, are C-shaped, whitish with a brown head, and mature at about 25 millimeters or more in length. They feed on roots in the soil, notably grasses and various crops.

Phyllophaga species undergo complete metamorphosis. Eggs are laid in soil; larvae develop underground for one to several years, depending on species and climate; they then pupate in the soil and emerge as adults in late spring to early summer. Adults live for a few weeks to a couple of months, during which time they reproduce.

Ecology and economic impact: Larvae damage plant roots, affecting turfgrass, corn, soybeans, alfalfa, and fruit trees, sometimes causing significant turf loss and reduced yields. Adults feed on the foliage of many hardwoods and ornamental trees, which can contribute to defoliation in urban and orchard settings.

Management often relies on cultural practices to reduce grub habitat, biological control with nematodes (such as Heterorhabditis or Steinernema species), and, when appropriate, targeted chemical insecticides in accordance with integrated pest management principles.