Wireworm (Agriotes spp.)
Soil-dwelling click beetle larvae feeding on roots, tubers and young plants.
Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles (Agriotes spp.) and live for several years in soil. They feed on roots, tubers and stems at soil level, causing wilting, stunting and plant loss. Damage is common in newly cultivated ground or grassland conversion. Biocontrol options include entomopathogenic nematodes such as Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and Steinernema carpocapsae. Trap cropping and avoiding grass-to-crop transitions reduce pressure.
Biological Controls for Wireworm (Agriotes spp.)
The options below are examples of beneficial insects and biological products commonly used against wireworm (agriotes spp.). Always refer to supplier guidance and product labels for crop safety and local registration status.
Steinernema carpocapsae + Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
Product: Exhibitline Sc + Exhibitline Hb
Environment: outdoor
Temperature Range: 10.0 – 25.0°C
Rate: Apply according to label in high risk fields
Frequency: Single or split applications
Nematode programmes can reduce wireworm damage when combined with rotation, cultivation and monitoring of risk fields.
Related Biological Solutions
Growers dealing with wireworm (agriotes spp.) often also monitor these pests as part of a complete IPM programme: