Do Japanese Beetles Bite? Uncovering the Truth

folder_openColeoptera, Insecta
comment2 Comments

Japanese beetles are known for their destructive nature on plants and crops, but many wonder if these pests also bite humans. The primary concern with these beetles involves damage to plant life, as they feed on the foliage and fruits of numerous plant species. Originally found in the United States in 1916, Japanese beetles have since spread throughout most of the country.

While their impact on plants is significant, Japanese beetles are not typically considered a threat to humans. Bites from these beetles are rare, but they can occur under certain circumstances.

Understanding Japanese Beetles

Appearance

Japanese beetles are small insects with metallic green bodies and copper-colored backs. Their tan wings make them easily recognizable. These beetles are approximately 5-7 mm wide and 8-11 mm long source.

Voracious Nature

Japanese beetles are known for their voracious feeding habits. They feed on more than 300 types of plants, causing significant damage to lawns, golf courses, and crops source. Their destructive nature can be attributed to the following characteristics:

  • Both adults and larvae are aggressive feeders
  • Adults are attracted to more plants, leading to further infestations
  • Larvae feed on grass roots, causing damage to turf and landscape plants

These beetles’ feeding habits can cause foliage and flowers to become skeletonized or reduced to thin, lace-like structures. The presence of beetles on a plant usually attracts more beetles, making control more difficult source. To protect high valued plants, some methods can be employed, such as using fine netted material, removing beetles physically before they multiply, and applying biological or chemical controls.

Impact on Plants and Lawns

Affected Plants

Japanese beetles are known to attack the foliage, flowers, or fruits of over 300 different ornamental and agricultural plants. Some common examples include:

  • Roses
  • Grapes
  • Raspberries
  • Beans

Damage to Leaves and Roots

These beetles feed on plant leaves, creating a skeletonized appearance as they consume the tissue between leaf veins. Their larval stage, known as grubs, feed on grass roots, potentially causing significant damage to lawns.

Dying Grass and Brown Patches

Grub-damaged turf often results in brown and dying grass, as the grubs effectively sever the connection between the plant and the soil. This can create loose patches of dead grass that can be easily pulled from the soil.

To summarize:

Damage Caused by Japanese Beetles Examples
Affected Plants Roses, Grapes, Raspberries, Beans
Leaves Skeletonized leaves
Roots & Lawns Brown patches, dying grass

Do Japanese Beetles Bite

Mandibles and Bites

Japanese beetles have mandibles that they use to chew on plant foliage. However, these mandibles are not strong enough to penetrate human skin, so they do not pose a risk of biting people.

Pinprick Sensation

Some people might feel a slight pinprick sensation if a Japanese beetle lands on them, but this sensation is not due to a bite. It may just be the beetle’s legs or other body parts brushing against the skin.

Distinguishing from Asian Lady Beetles

Japanese beetles should not be confused with Asian lady beetles which can occasionally bite if threatened. Here’s a comparison table to help differentiate these insects:

Feature Japanese Beetle Asian Lady Beetle
Size 1/3 to 1/2 inch 1/4 to 1/3 inch
Color Metallic green/blue, coppery brown wing covers Orange, red, or yellow with black spots
Habitat Gardens, lawns, trees Gardens, crops, homes during winter months

Do remember the following points:

  • Japanese beetles have mandibles not strong enough to bite humans.
  • They may cause a pinprick sensation but not from biting.
  • Asian lady beetles, unlike Japanese beetles, can bite occasionally.

Preventing Japanese Beetle Damage

Protecting Plants

Japanese beetles can cause significant damage to plants, including skeletonized leaves. To prevent this:

  • Remove beetles early. Their presence attracts more beetles to the plant.
  • Shake beetles off in the morning when they’re sluggish.
  • Place beetles in a bucket of soapy water to kill them.
  • Use cheesecloth or a fine net to cover high-value plants.

For example, covering rose bushes with a fine net can help protect them from beetles.

Maintaining Healthy Lawns

Japanese beetles also contribute to dying grass by feeding on grass roots. To maintain a healthy lawn:

  • Monitor for beetle larvae.
  • Implement proper watering and fertilization routines.
  • Aerate the soil to promote healthy root growth.

For instance, aerating the lawn in the spring and fall can help prevent beetle infestations.

Comparison Table: Protecting Plants vs. Maintaining Lawns

Method Pros Cons
Protecting Plants Preserves plant health and beauty Requires daily monitoring and manual removal
Maintaining Lawns Prevents grass from dying May require professional lawn aeration

In summary, preventing Japanese beetle damage involves both protecting plants and maintaining healthy lawns. By following these tips, you can minimize beetle infestations and maintain a beautiful garden.

 

 

 

Authors

  • Bugman

    Bugman aka Daniel Marlos has been identifying bugs since 1999. whatsthatbug.com is his passion project and it has helped millions of readers identify the bug that has been bugging them for over two decades. You can reach out to him through our Contact Page.

    View all posts
  • Piyushi is a nature lover, blogger and traveler at heart. She lives in beautiful Canada with her family. Piyushi is an animal lover and loves to write about all creatures.

    View all posts
Tags: Japanese Beetle

Related Posts

2 Comments. Leave new

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Fill out this field
Fill out this field
Please enter a valid email address.
You need to agree with the terms to proceed

keyboard_arrow_up