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IPM Scouting in Herbaceous Perennials

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Blister beetle
IPM scouting in herbaceous perennials > blister beetle
Blister beetle adults are 19 mm long and elongated. They vary in color from black and blue to brown, with or without stripes. They possess a characteristic constricted neck. These beetles overwinter as larvae in the soil.

Management: Adults can be hand picked, but it is important to wear gloves because these insects release a caustic substance when crushed that can cause blisters and welts on the skin. Contact insecticides may be used to control the adults.
Blister beetle adult Blister beetle damage Blister beetle
Adult beetles with stripes. Adults feed on flowers and leaves, creating small rounded or irregularly shaped holes. Color variations include black like these adult beetles.
This information was developed from A Pocket Guide for IPM Scouting in Herbaceous Perennials by Jan Byrne and Raymond A. Cloyd. Purchase this in a pocket-sized guide for reference in the orchard from MSU Extension (publication E-2981).
The MSU IPM Program maintains this site as an access point to pest management information at MSU. The IPM Program is administered within the Department of Entomology, fueled by research from the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, delivered to citizens through MSU Extension, and proud to be a part of Project GREEEN.
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Updated 8/06/07