Grapevine beetles are part of the scarab family, which includes over 30,000 species worldwide, such as June Bugs, Dung Beetles, and Japanese Beetles. These beetles can be found on grapevines, but their impact on the plants varies.
While grapevine beetles do feed on grapevine leaves, their primary focus is not on biting humans or animals. However, it is important to remember that different species within the scarab family may have different behaviors and interactions with humans.
In general, grapevine beetles can cause damage to grapevines by feeding on the plant’s primary buds, preventing the development of shoots. This ultimately reduces the yield of grapes and can be a concern for grape growers. But for the average person, grapevine beetles pose little to no risk in terms of biting or physical harm.
Grapevine Beetle Identification and Appearance
Color and Physical Features
- Grapevine Beetles (GB) usually have an oval and chunky shape.
- Common colors range from pale broom-straw yellow to rich saffron.
- Sturdy front legs widened and toothed for digging.
Grapevine Beetles are nocturnal creatures that are typically oval and chunky. Their color may vary from a pale broom-straw yellow to a rich saffron hue. GBs have distinctive, sturdy front legs that are widened and toothed, specialized for digging purposes. For more information on their color and physical features, visit this page.
Antennae and Lamellae
- Club-shaped antennae with plates at the ends.
- Capable of spreading into a fan-like form.
An interesting feature of the Grapevine Beetle is its antennae. They are club-shaped with plates at the ends, which are called lamellae. The antennae can spread out and adopt a fan-like form. To learn more about antennae and lamellae, refer to this source.
Spot Pattern on Elytra
- Spot on each side of the thorax.
- Three spots on each side of the elytra.
Grapevine Beetles have distinct markings on their bodies. They have a spot on each side of their thorax and three spots on the side of each elytron or wing cover. For more details and examples of the spot pattern on elytra, consult this website.
Life Cycle and Habitat
Eggs and Larval Stage
Grapevine beetles lay their eggs in soil near roots of plants. The eggs hatch into larvae that feed on rotting wood, like:
- Fallen branches
- Dead stumps
- Logs
Larvae undergo multiple molting stages, growing larger each time.
Pupal Stage and Adult Grapevine Beetles
After the final larval stage, larvae pupate in soil. This stage lasts for about 7-10 days before the adult beetle emerges. Adult grapevine beetles are members of the Scarabaeidae family, which includes over 30,000 species worldwide.
Adult Grapevine Beetle Features:
- Oval-shaped
- Shiny brown or green
- Six legs
- Antenna with club-like tips
Natural Habitats and Host Plants
Grapevine beetles inhabit areas with:
- Decaying wood
- Soil suitable for egg laying and pupation
- Host plants, including grapevines and other fruit trees
Comparison Table: Life Stages of Grapevine Beetle
| Life Stage | Habitat | Duration | Feeding Habits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egg | Soil near plant roots | Days to weeks | — |
| Larva | In rotting wood | Multiple months | Feed on wood and organic matter |
| Pupa | In soil | 7-10 days | — |
| Adult | On host plants, fruit trees | Weeks to months | Eat leaves and fruit |
Overall, grapevine beetles have a life cycle deeply connected to their natural habitat, in and around rotting wood and fruit-bearing plants. Understanding this cycle helps to minimize their impact on garden environments.
6 Comments. Leave new
this grapevine beetle is very nocturnal here in Manchester Ct Thought someone was in the bushes went I went to feed the stray cats after second shift There he/she was. With all the rain we have had bushes,vines and Sunflowers are going great along with the garden. I would live in the jungle out there too.
Very nice solid scarab ! It has been noted in north America ,that many species are now moving north ( slowly ) as the massive warming tread is increasing world wide . We all will have to monitor these range extensions , as they represent important and drastic environmental changes for everything plant and animal on our continent . Cheers ! Gene St. Denis Sierra Nevada Research
Hi Gene,
We suspect you mean “without spots” when you wrote “solid scarab” so we lightened the image and reposted as the spots were hidden in the shadows. WTB? has been reporting Grapevine Beetles from Canada as far back as 2006. Citizen Science programs that report wildlife sightings have increased in popularity lately, and they are a great documentation of range expansion. WTB? has much in common with Citizen Science programs, but alas, our records are not very well organized. We remember the thrill we felt when we first reported neotropical Green Orchid Bees in Florida back in 2004.
Daniel, I meant that physically the specimen was solid / healthy and not crushed ( they are Beautiful Scarabs ! ) . Folks up north are seeing more and more insects, birds, and mammals that have not been in their area before , as they were south of them ( the plants will follow) . The dreaded words….. Global Warming …… is starting to have hard evidence , whether we want it or not . Cheers! Geno
Thanks for the clarification Gene. Habitats are changing everywhere for so many reasons, though we humans seem connected to almost all of it.
I think I have a grapevine beetle but I am not sure. I have a picture of th9e little guy or shall I say big guy. Can you help me identify this little guy?