
Community identification
Japanese Beetle
Popillia japonica
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera; Scarabaeidae
- Size
- 8 to 11 mm (0.3 to 0.4 inches) in length
Natural Habitat
Grassy areas, gardens, farms, and forests across North America and parts of Asia and Europe
Diet & Feeding
Adults are generalist herbivores that feed on the foliage, flowers, and fruits of over 300 plant species; larvae feed on the roots of grasses.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are active during the day and group together to feed (gregarious feeding). They exhibit a complete metamorphosis cycle: egg, larva (grub), pupa, and adult.
Risks & Benefits
Regarded as a highly destructive invasive pest. They cause significant damage to ornamental plants, crops, and turfgrass. Benefits are minimal, though they can serve as a food source for some birds and small mammals.