Can anyone help identify this greedy bug?

John_henry

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5061_black_bug.jpg


We've been getting loads of these greedy little bugs eating up everything they can. I have no idea what they are or how to get rid of them. The only natural pesticides I know comprise of chilli's, garlic and tobacco. I did recently have wood ash and vinegar suggested to me, but I haven't tried that yet.

Any ideas??
 

Wannabefree

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Japanese beetle? They aren't supposed to be very destructive in Japan, because they have natural predators over there, but then Japan has been through a lot ecologically speaking the past year that could have done something to the natural predator population.

The larval stage is a grub worm, maybe try to eradicate them at that stage. :hu I have never had a real problem with them myself, so....I can't help you on how to get rid of them.
 

so lucky

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That does look like a Japanese beetle to me, although mine are more of a shiny black-green. I caught a generous half gallon of beetles just yesterday in the pheremone trap. At this rate, I'll have 10 gallons before the season is over!! I put them in the freezer for chicken treats in the winter. I read or heard somewhere that the pheremone traps actually attract more beetles from neighboring areas, and I have a feeling that is true. I'm pretty sure if I had the thousands of beetles that I caught, roaming around my property looking for food, I would have mass destruction.And I don't, at least not yet!:hide So they must head straight for the trap, without stopping at the gardens. OK by me!!!:clap You can get the pheremone trap at any lawn-garden store or big-mart. Cost about 7 bucks.
 

Denim Deb

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I don't think it's a Japanese beetle-the wings don't look right. I was thinking a flea beetle, but it looks too big. I'm not sure when I put my entomology text book, so I can't even ask you any questions to help you ID it. :(
 

so lucky

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It didn't even register to me that the OP is in Japan. He probably has lots of different bugs there than I have in MO. :/
 

~gd

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Cant really judge size but the leaf damage COULD be from a leaf miner and that is a huge family. Sorry I can't help more.
 

Denim Deb

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I found my entomology text book. If you're willing to answer some questions, I may be able to help. From the appearance, I'd say it's some type of beetle, but there are several different kinds.
 

Wannabefree

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Well it looks like the same bug! kinda. :)
 

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