Phyllophaga

Definition

A large genus of New World scarab beetles (family Scarabaeidae, subfamily Melolonthinae) commonly known as May beetles, June bugs, or July beetles. Adults are typically 12–35 mm, blackish to reddish-brown, often hairy ventrally, and strongly attracted to lights; larvae are soil-dwelling white grubs that feed on plant roots. The name derives from Greek phyllon (leaf) + phagos (eater), reflecting adult folivory in many species.

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek phyllon (leaf) + -phagos (eater), referring to leaf-feeding habits of adults

Example

Phyllophaga anxia and P. crinita are common agricultural pests in eastern North America, whose root-feeding larvae damage corn, turfgrass, and pasture crops.

Synonyms

• May beetle (common name)
• June bug (common name)
• July beetle (common name)

Related Terms

• Melolonthinae
• Scarabaeidae
• white grub
• scarab beetle
• holometabolous
• root herbivore
• Phototaxis

Usage Notes

Often used interchangeably with common names 'June bug' or 'May beetle,' though those terms also apply to related genera in Melolonthinae. The genus contains hundreds of species, many poorly distinguished morphologically; identification often requires examination of male genitalia. Not to be confused with the obsolete taxonomic usage (junior synonym of Folivora, the sloths).