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Polyphylla fullo

Pine chafer

Description

It is the largest European chafer, reaching up to 35 mm in size. It flies in June-July. The female lays eggs into light sandy soil, mostly in pine stands. Chafer grubs hatch in about a month. They feed on plant roots, often especially on the roots of pine seedlings. Larval development reaches 3 years. Fully developed grubs pupate in June deep in the soil. During the swarming period, adults feed on young pine needles. It occurs only locally, but it can be common in some localities.

Symptom

The larvae damage roots of herbs and trees. Adult is a large, brown beetle.

Tree Species: Pine

Part of a plant- attacked: Roots, Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes