Michigan State University Extension
Michigan Soybean Information - 00000066
11/16/00
Wireworm Complex (Melanotus, Limonius, Conoderus and Ctenicera spp.)
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Wireworms are cream to brown slender larvae up to 1-1/4
inches long (Vis. 1). The body covering is shiny and
somewhat hardened. Feeding damage to seeds, roots, and
the underground stem causes stand reductions. Soil
conditions that delay germination and plant growth
increase the likelihood of damage. The larvae may live
from 1 to 7 years in the soil, depending on the species.
Infestations can be more severe following sod, cover
crops, or fallow. Wireworms are found throughout the
Midwest and South.
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This file was generated from data base S1 on 11/16/00.
Data base S1 was last revised on 11/16/00.
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