University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Brome grass pasture in Saline County damaged by white grubs. (Photo by Randy Pryor)
May 19, 2006

White grubs identified in pastures

We have received several reports of white grubs damaging grass pastures in eastern Nebraska. I received a sample from two locations in south central Nebraska which were Phyllophaga white grubs. These grubs have a three-year life cycle.

Based on their size they are in the second year of their life cycle and will continue feeding this summer. Annual white grubs also may be found at some locations, but they are about done with feeding for this year and are unlikely to cause more damage.

There are limited insecticide options for grass pastures, and none of the registered products would be good against white grubs.

Bob Wright
Extension Entomologist, Lincoln

Annual white grub larva (Cyclocephala) Three-year white grub larva (Phyllophaga)

To distinguish the annual white grub (Cyclocephala) from the three-year white grub (Phyllophaga), look at the underside of the last abdominal segment of the white grub.  You will need a hand lens to see these features.  The annual white grub has a random scattering of spines, but the three-year grub has two parallel rows of spines.
(Photos by Jim Kalisch)

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Published by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources Cooperating with the counties and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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