May Beetles

Phyllophaga

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phyllophaga: //ˌfɪ.ləˈfeɪ.ɡə//

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Images

Summary

Phyllophaga, commonly known as May beetles, is a large genus of scarab beetles with over 900 species primarily found in the New World. They play various roles in the ecosystem, though they can be pests due to their larval feeding habits.

Physical Characteristics

Adults range from 12 to 35 mm in size, typically blackish or reddish-brown in color, with no prominent markings and are often rather hairy ventrally.

Identification Tips

Species can be identified by examination of genitalia; both males and females can be used.

Habitat

Larvae inhabit roots and decaying vegetation in the soil, commonly found in grass roots and beneath nests of Pogonomyrmex. Adults are found on the leaves of various plants.

Distribution

Phyllophaga is distributed throughout the Americas, with over 400 species reported in the US and approximately 54 species in Florida.

Diet

Adults feed on the leaves and flowers of many deciduous trees, shrubs, and other plants. The larvae (white grubs) feed on the roots of grasses and other plants, occasionally affecting vegetables and young ornamental trees.

Life Cycle

The lifecycle takes about one year. Females lay 60 to 75 eggs in midsummer, which hatch into larvae about 18 days later. Larvae undergo several molts and pupate after approximately nine months, overwintering as grubs.

Reproduction

Females lay their eggs in the soil during midsummer, and the eggs hatch into larvae after about 18 days.

Predators

Predators include various flies from the Pyrgotidae family, bee flies like Exoprosopa fasciata, wasps from families such as Pelecinidae and Scoliidae which act as parasitoids, and various amphibians and small mammals including skunks and moles.

Ecosystem Role

Phyllophaga plays an important role in soil aeration and nutrient cycling due to its larval feeding habits. They also serve as prey for various animals.

Economic Impact

Grubs can cause significant agricultural damage by feeding on the roots of crops and ornamental plants, resulting in wilting and stunted growth.

Collecting Methods

  • Trapping under lights due to nocturnal activity
  • Hand collection from foliage

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning specimens
  • Preserving in alcohol for genetic studies

Evolution

The generic name Phyllophaga derived from Greek means 'leaf eater', reflecting their dietary habits as adults.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Many believe that all beetles in this group are pests; while larvae can be pests, adults also provide ecological benefits by recycling nutrients.

Tags

  • beetles
  • May beetles
  • scarabaeidae
  • Coleoptera