Managing the Japanese Beetle: A Homeowner's Handbook (Revised)

摘要

The Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica Newman) is a highly destructive plant pest211u001eof foreign origin. It was first found in the United States in a nursery in 211u001esouthern New Jersey nearly 80 years ago. In its native Japan, where the beetle's 211u001enatural enemies keep its populations in check, this insect is not a serious plant 211u001epest. In the United States, however, the beetle entered without its natural 211u001eenemies and found a favorable climate and an abundant food supply. By 1972, 211u001ebeetle infestations had been reported in 22 States east of the Mississippi River 211u001eand also in Iowa and Missouri. Since then, the pest has continued to disperse 211u001esouth and west. Isolated infestations have been found in Wisconsin, Oregon, and 211u001eCalifornia. Without its natural checks and balances, the Japanese beetle has 211u001ebecome a serious plant pest and a threat to American agriculture.