False Wireworms

the general name given to the larvae of darkling (tenebrionid) and pollen-eating (alleculid) beetles; the most numerous group of crop pests. The name “false wire-worms” differentiates them from true wireworms, the larvae of click beetles. False wireworms are approximately 5 cm long; their body is almost cylindrical, supple, and yellowish. They live in the top layers of soil, readily tolerating its drying out, and take about 1–1½ years to develop. False wireworms are common pests in steppe regions with an arid climate. They eat seeds and gnaw upon or through the underground parts of young plants. Control measures include using poisoned bait and cultivation practices aimed at destroying the cocoons.