The Argentinian scarab (Cyclocephala signaticollis) is an invasive scarab beetle species that has become a significant pest in Australian lawns and turf areas. First reported in Australia in the mid-1950s, it has since spread along the southeastern coast, affecting regions from Sydney to southern Queensland.
Adult Beetle: Approximately 15 mm in length, with a tan body and subtle brown striping on the wing cases.
Larvae (Curl Grubs): Soft-bodied, white to creamy-white grubs up to 25 mm long, with three pairs of legs and a hard, light brown head capsule.
The Argentinian scarab has a one-year lifecycle:
Eggs: 2–4 weeks
Larvae: 10–11 months
Pupae: 4–5 days
Adults: 1–4 weeks
Adults emerge in early summer when soil temperatures rise, mate, and lay eggs in the upper soil layers.
Larvae feed on grass roots, leading to:
Spongy, uneven turf
Increased bird activity (e.g., magpies)
Yellowing and thinning of grass
Potential turf death in severe cases.
Damage is most noticeable during late spring to early summer, coinciding with the larvae's feeding period .
Chemical Control: Insecticides like Acelepryn (chlorantraniliprole) are effective against larvae and have minimal impact on beneficial organisms.
Timing: Apply treatments during late December to early January, targeting the peak larval activity.
Caution: Be aware that treatments effective against Argentinian scarabs may also affect native beetle species, such as Christmas beetles.
For images and further information on the Argentinian scarab, you can visit:
These resources provide detailed images and descriptions to aid in identification and management.
| Cyclocephala signaticollis |
The Argentinian scarab (Cyclocephala signaticollis) is an invasive scarab beetle species that has become a significant pest in Australian lawns and turf areas. First reported in Australia in the mid-1950s, it has since spread along the southeastern coast, affecting regions from Sydney to southern Queensland.
Adult Beetle: Approximately 15 mm in length, with a tan body and subtle brown striping on the wing cases.
Larvae (Curl Grubs): Soft-bodied, white to creamy-white grubs up to 25 mm long, with three pairs of legs and a hard, light brown head capsule.
The Argentinian scarab has a one-year lifecycle:
Eggs: 2–4 weeks
Larvae: 10–11 months
Pupae: 4–5 days
Adults: 1–4 weeks
Adults emerge in early summer when soil temperatures rise, mate, and lay eggs in the upper soil layers.
Larvae feed on grass roots, leading to:
Spongy, uneven turf
Increased bird activity (e.g., magpies)
Yellowing and thinning of grass
Potential turf death in severe cases.
Damage is most noticeable during late spring to early summer, coinciding with the larvae's feeding period .
Chemical Control: Insecticides like Acelepryn (chlorantraniliprole) are effective against larvae and have minimal impact on beneficial organisms.
Timing: Apply treatments during late December to early January, targeting the peak larval activity.
Caution: Be aware that treatments effective against Argentinian scarabs may also affect native beetle species, such as Christmas beetles.
For images and further information on the Argentinian scarab, you can visit:
These resources provide detailed images and descriptions to aid in identification and management.
