Elm Leaf Beetles in Salina
There are several types of beetles that damage elm leaves, but one invasive pest is a greater threat to elm trees than all others. Found in Salina and throughout the United States, Elm leaf beetles chew the leaves of elm trees, especially Siberian and English elms. Adult elm leaf beetles chew holes in the leaves and larvae feed on the leaf surface, producing injuries that make leaves look lacy. Elm leaf beetles often overwinter in and around buildings and can be a significant nuisance pest in homes.
Elm Leaf Beetle Habitat
Adult elm leaf beetles often overwinter in houses or other structures. In homes, they gravitate toward protective locations like attics and crawl spaces. They will then reemerge in the spring. Adults lay eggs in groups of 5 to 25 on the underside of leaves. Elm leaf beetle larvae skeletonize the leaf surface, causing damage to foliage that turns it brown to whitish. When abundant, elm leaf beetles can defoliate large elm trees, which eliminates summer shade and reduces the aesthetic value of neighborhoods.
Elm Leaf Carpet Beetle Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Elm leaf beetles do not bite or sting, but they are a significant invasive pest. Their devastating effect on trees can be heartbreaking to watch. When large beetle populations persist for several years, tracts of trees can be ruined. If beetles are observed in the autumn, you should contact a pest management professional for licensed treatment and beetle control.
