HPIPM:Wireworms FC

Author: Frank B. Peairs[1]

Identification (and life cycle/seasonal history)

Wireworms are the larval stage of a family of beetles (Elateridae) commonly called "click beetles." There are several species of wireworm whose life cycle may require one or more years per generation. The insects usually overwinter in the adult stage. Adults are brownish or even blackish in color, elongate and tapering toward each end but more so toward the rear. The earliest stages of larvae are very small and white, later stages have a characteristic hard shell appearance and a yellow brown color. Mature larvae range from ½ to one inch in length, depending on the species.

Females deposit eggs in the soil among grass roots. When the eggs hatch the larvae feed on the roots of corn and other grasses. The larvae mature in from two to five years. Fully developed larvae form pupation chambers in the soil and pupate. Adults emerge from the pupae and remain in the soil until the following spring.

Plant Response and Damage

Wireworm populations in corn are most severe in corn fields following sod or fields having a prolonged grassy weed problem. Wireworms feed on germinating corn seeds and early corn seedlings, and may bore into stalks at the soil level. There may be significant stand loss if there is an abundant population in the field.

Management Approaches

Chemical Control

Wireworms should not be a concern if a soil insecticide is used for control of corn rootworms. A corn seed protectant should be used if a soil insecticide is not used (see the rootworm chapter for details). Seed protectants are available with active ingredients including clothianidin (Poncho), imidacloprid (several products), permethrin (generic, several products), and thiamethoxam (Cruiser).

Due to constantly changing labels, laws and regulations, the sponsors of this web site assume no liability for the suggested use of any chemicals noted in the management section. Contact your local pest management personnel for current information on labeled pesticides that can be used for the intended plant disease, insect pest or weed.