HPIPM:Symphylans Sugarbeets

Taxonomy

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Arthropoda
Class	Chilopoda
Order	Scutigeromorpha
Family	Scutigeridae
Genus	Scutigera

Scientific Name

Scutigera coleoptrata

Scientific Name Synonyms

Scutigeraa coleoptrataa

Common Name

house centipede

Author: Gary L. Hein

Symphylans, Scutigerella immaculata, rarely build up to damaging levels. Occurrence in the field is likely to be spotty, however, damage in these spots may be severe.

Identification (and life cycle/seasonal history)

Symphylans are fast moving soil arthropods that resemble centipedes. They grow up to 3/8 inch long, have long antennae and can have up to 12 pairs of legs. Their entire life cycle is spent in the soil. They will move up and down in the soil depending on soil moisture and temperature.

Plant Damage and Response

Symphylans feed on decaying vegetable matter and small root hairs on the plant. Roots can be severely pruned with few secondary roots remaining. This stubby root appearance may resemble chemical injury. Damage can result in severe stunting and plant death and most often it is confined to localized spots or patches.

Management Approaches

Symphylans often are associated with fields that have a history of heavy manure use or very high organic matter. Deep vigorous tillage may reduce symphylan numbers, but severe infestations may require fumigation.

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