This beetle is causing a case of mistaken identity with the Christmas beetle, and it’s also destroying our lawns!
There has been a reported surge in Christmas beetles in Sydney backyards, according to the ABC. However, it’s not the shiny, festive beetle that has come back out of hiding, but its naughty, international cousin, the Argentinian scarab beetle.
This scarab beetle has been mistaken by many as the shiny Christmas beetle, with individuals commenting on the ‘hordes of beetles’ in backyards and gardens.
While very similar looking, an Argentinian scarab beetle is quite a bit smaller than a Christmas beetle and has thinner back legs.
How do Argentinian scarab beetles ruin your lawn?
This species of scarab beetle are actually invasive to Australia, and can be especially damaging to your turf lawn.
This is because the larvae love to feed on turf grass roots, which can damage large areas of root systems. This sort of damage is quite similar to that of drought stress, as the root system is compromised so the grass growing above is unable to receive moisture and nutrients and will begin to die.
In more severe cases, it will cause large patches of your lawn to die, and once rolled back from the soil, you will be able to see the feeding grubs.
Since traditional lawns are not of ‘interest’ to native biomes, they are more prone to pests and insects like the Argentinian lawn scarab that love eating away at them.
Killing Argentinian lawn scarabs with pesticide
Unfortunately, killing these beetles with pesticide is not recommended currently. This is because the use of pesticide may affect and potentially kill the real Christmas beetle, which is in a mysterious population decline already.
Dr Latty, an entomologist spoke to the ABC about this issue, stating that “Any of the things we use to treat Argentinian scarabs will also affect Christmas beetles and other native scarab beetles.”
Using pesticides, while extremely effective, may cause harm to native insects within the area. If pesticide is your only option, then using a heavy-grade turf insecticide during late December to early January should do the trick.
The best way to prevent lawn scarab infestation
Surprisingly, the easiest way to prevent Argentinian lawn scarabs from becoming a pest in your garden is actually by additional planting.
Planting native plants, especially native lawns, are great for increasing the natural biodiversity in your backyard. This brings native animals, birds and insects that deter invasive and unwanted pests.
While having a traditional turf lawn may be a stylistic choice for your garden, planting more natively will ensure your garden is free from damage and disease.
Plus, it’s a great way to be more eco-friendly and provide homes to Aussie species, including the dwindling Christmas beetle.
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