The common asparagus beetle and spotted asparagus beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae): Identification, ecology, and management

Abstract

The common and spotted asparagus beetles (Crioceris asparagi (L.) and Crioceris duodecimpunctata (L.), respectively) are host-specific pests of asparagus, and frequently occur wherever asparagus is grown. The common asparagus beetle is the more serious of the two pests. It emerges earlier in the season, and both adults and larvae can cause damage to the asparagus crop by chewing spears and removing fern. This article describes morphological features of both asparagus beetles, discusses aspects of their life cycle and ecology, and addresses management strategies such as pesticides, biological, and cultural controls.