Rootworm
Guides
Diabrotica barberi
northern corn rootworm
Diabrotica barberi, the northern corn rootworm, is a chrysomelid beetle native to North America and a major pest of corn (Zea mays). Larvae feed on corn roots, causing significant economic damage, while adults feed on corn silks, pollen, and leaves. Unlike the western corn rootworm, D. barberi has not developed resistance to Bt traits in Iowa as of 2019-2020 surveys. The species exhibits extended diapause in some populations, with eggs remaining dormant for multiple years before hatching. Research indicates its flight behavior differs from D. virgifera, with shorter but more frequent flights and less sustained long-distance movement.