First report of the occurrence of wireworm (Lanelater fuscipes) (Fabricius) as a pest in different field crops in India

First report of the occurrence of wireworm (Lanelater fuscipes) (Fabricius) as a pest in different field crops in India | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article First report of the occurrence of wireworm ( Lanelater fuscipes ) (Fabricius) as a pest in different field crops in India ANANDMURTHY T, P. S. Tippannavar, V Anandkumar, M. V. Matti, N. T Dileepkumar, and 1 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4760400/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Published Journal Publication published 23 Dec, 2024 Read the published version in International Journal of Tropical Insect Science → Version 1 posted 4 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Wireworm belongs to the Coleoptera order in the family Elateridae and is primarily located in Northern Karnataka, India. Recently, this highly successful pest was observed infesting maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger and onion crops, marking a new record of insect infestation. The pest causes damage to seeds, roots, stems, tubers and other plant parts by feeding, chewing or drilling into below-ground plant structures. This damage enhances secondary infections with plant diseases (bacteria or fungi), leading to plants that either fail to emerge or to produce good growth. The initial sighting of this insect occurred in various districts of Northern Karnataka, India. However, during a thorough two-year investigation from 2020 to 2021, it was found spreading to neighbouring areas. Consequently, without timely control measures, it poses a significant threat to various crops in Karnataka and adjoining areas. A survey was carried out in farmers' fields at regular intervals during crop growth. The host range and per cent incidence of wireworm were noted on various crops, including maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger and onion. Relatively higher incidence was noticed in maize at the seedling stage, in groundnut at both the germination as well as pod-filling stages and in sugarcane at the germination stage. However, in ginger and onion, higher incidence was recorded during the vegetative stage. Irrespective of the crop, wireworm incidence ranged from 20.93 to 37.16 percent. Wireworm grubs were collected from fields and sent to the All India Network Project on Soil Arthropods, for identification. They were identified as Lanelater fuscipes. Wireworm secondary infection host range Lanelater fuscipes Figures Figure 1 INTRODUCTION Wireworms, the larvae of click beetles (Coleoptera: Elateridae), rank among the serious soil dwelling pests of agricultural and horticultural crops, which are generalists and feed on a wide variety of crops e.g., sugarcane, maize, groundnut, potato, wheat, sorghum, onion, ginger, chilly, sugar beet, carrot and soft roots. They cause damage by feeding on germinating seeds and young seedlings by feeding roots and tunnelling through lower stem parts and root crops. Hence, plants might suffer reduced water, nutrient supply and delay plant development or cause death, further root crops obtain a reduced quality and quantity of marketable yield. Adults are nocturnal and usually nectarivores (feeding on nectar), pollen feeders and some are phytophagous and they are typically found hiding under organic material during the day. (Seal 1991, Seal et al. 1992). Wireworms damage seeds, roots, stems, tubers, and other plant parts by feeding, chewing, or drilling into below-ground structures, which often leads to secondary infections with plant diseases (bacteria or fungi). This results in plants that either fail to emerge or produce weak growth (Keiser et al., 2012). Later in the growing season, wireworm injury can stimulate excessive tillering and inhibit wheat head formation. This injury causes wilting, stunting, crop thinning, delayed plant maturation, and seedling death, leading to yield reduction and decreased crop value (Claudia and Ellen, 2013). In many fields, wireworm infestation results in uneven plant stands, allowing weeds to compete with crops for available nutrients and moisture, and preventing or reducing the normal tillering of adjacent uninjured plants. Secondary infections from various diseases can further reduce crop quality and quantity. Although wireworms were generally considered a minor pest for many crops in most regions of the world, they have become increasingly problematic in various crops over the past two decades (Parker and Howard, 2001; Ritter and Richter, 2013; Traugott et al., 2015). Consequently, scientific interest in this complex group of insect pests has resurged. In light of the severity of the problem posed by wireworms, studies were undertaken to examine their host range in endemic areas of northern Karnataka, India. MATERIALS AND METHODS To study the host range of wireworm, major crops belonging to cereals, pulses, onion, chilli, ginger, oilseeds, vegetables and sugarcane were surveyed. During the survey, these major crops was observed for the incidence of wireworm in the field and also observed for the stage of plant growth damaged across various crops. Similarly, per cent damage due to wireworm was worked out by using the formula. $$\:\text{P}\text{e}\text{r}\:\text{c}\text{e}\text{n}\text{t}\:\text{i}\text{n}\text{c}\text{i}\text{d}\text{e}\text{n}\text{c}\text{e}\:=\frac{\text{T}\text{o}\text{t}\text{a}\text{l}\:\text{N}\text{u}\text{m}\text{b}\text{e}\text{r}\:\text{o}\text{f}\:\text{p}\text{l}\text{a}\text{n}\text{t}\text{s}\:\text{d}\text{a}\text{m}\text{a}\text{g}\text{e}\text{d}\:}{\text{T}\text{o}\text{t}\text{a}\text{l}\:\text{N}\text{u}\text{m}\text{b}\text{e}\text{r}\:\text{o}\text{f}\:\text{p}\text{l}\text{a}\text{n}\text{t}\text{s}\:\text{o}\text{b}\text{s}\text{e}\text{r}\text{v}\text{e}\text{d}}\text{X}\:100\:$$ Wireworm grubs were collected by digging one square meter area at selected spots, based on the visual symptoms expressed by the plant in the field. Collected wireworm was stored in 95 per cent ethanol, assigned a unique identifier in the form of a physical barcode and kept at room temperature. Voucher specimens were maintained at the Department of Entomology, University of Agricultural Science, Dharwad, India. The specimen was sent to All India Network Project on Soil Arthropods (Division of Entomology, University of Agricultural Science, GKVK, Bangalore, India) for identification. RESULTS The results of the host range of wireworms recorded during two successive seasons are presented in Table 1 . Surveys conducted in northern Karnataka, including the districts of Dharwad, Belagavi, Bagalkot, and Haveri, revealed that various crops such as maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger, and onion were infested by wireworms (Fig. 1 ). The infestation stages varied from crop to crop. Table 1 Studies on host range of wireworm, Lanelater fuscipes Location Crop Stage of plant infested Incidence (%) 2020 2021 Mean Dharwad Maize Seedling stage 28.85 30.65 29.75 Groundnut Germination and pod development stage 20.00 21.87 20.93 Belagavi Sugarcane Germination stage 37.50 36.82 37.16 Maize Seedling stage 26.85 33.64 30.24 Bagalkot Sugarcane Germination stage 33.45 38.76 36.10 Onion Vegetative stage 21.62 30.19 25.90 Haveri Ginger Vegetative stage 27.50 26.82 27.16 Maize Seedling stage 19.50 22.66 21.08 A survey conducted in Dharwad during the first year revealed that maize and groundnut crops were infested by wireworms. Maize showed an infestation rate of 28.85 per cent at the seedling stage, while groundnut had a 20 per cent infestation rate at the germination and pod development stages. In the second season, similar results were observed, with maize having a 30.65 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage and groundnut having a 21.87 per cent infestation rate at the germination and pod development stages. Pooled data analysis for the Dharwad district indicated an overall infestation rate of 29.75 per cent in maize at the seedling stage and 20.93 per cent in groundnut at the germination and pod development stages. In Belagavi district, during the first year, sugarcane and maize crops were infested by wireworms. Sugarcane exhibited a 37.50 per cent infestation rate at the germination stage, while maize had a 26.85 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage. In the second season, similar patterns were observed, with sugarcane showing a 36.82 per cent infestation rate at the germination stage and maize showing a 33.64 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage. Pooled data indicated a 37.16 per cent infestation rate in sugarcane at the germination stage and a 30.24 per cent infestation rate in maize at the seedling stage. Different crops were infested by wireworms at Bagalkot district, the infestation due to wireworm was noticed in different crops viz., sugarcane and onion. In sugarcane, 33.45 per cent infestation was recorded at germination stage, whereas, 21.62 per cent infestation was recorded at vegetative stage in onion. In the second season, similar crops were observed, with sugarcane exhibiting a 38.76 per cent infestation rate at the germination stage and onion showing a 30.19 per cent infestation rate at the vegetative stage. Pooled data revealed a 36.10 per cent infestation rate in sugarcane at the germination stage and a 25.90 per cent infestation rate in onion at the vegetative stage. In Haveri district, during the first year, ginger and maize were surveyed for wireworm infestation. Ginger showed a 27.50 per cent infestation rate at the vegetative stage, while maize had a 19.50 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage. In the second season, ginger exhibited a 26.82 per cent infestation rate at the vegetative stage and maize showed a 22.66 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage. Pooled data indicated a 27.16 per cent infestation rate in ginger at the vegetative stage and a 21.08 per cent infestation rate in maize at the seedling stage. DISCUSSION Incidence of wireworm was recorded in various crops—maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger, and onion—at different stages of crop growth across four districts (Plates 1 to 5). The highest incidence, 37.16% damage, was observed in sugarcane at the germination stage in Belagavi district. Similarly, in Bagalkot district, sugarcane crops were infested with a 36.10% incidence. Maize crops experienced damage rates of 30.34%, 29.75%, and 21.28% in the Belagavi, Dharwad, and Haveri districts, respectively, at the seedling stage. Ginger, onion, and groundnut also registered damage rates of 27.17%, 29.90%, and 20.93% at the vegetative stage. Notably, groundnut crops experienced damage at both the germination and pod filling stages. The variation in wireworm incidence across different crops and locations can be attributed to various factors such as soil edaphic conditions, organic matter content, tillage practices, and abiotic factors like precipitation, soil temperature, and humidity. Several studies have explored the damage and factors associated with wireworm infestation. For instance, Saussure et al. (2015) demonstrated that tillage is a significant factor influencing the intensity of wireworm damage, a view supported by Furlan (2005). Miles and Petherbridge (1927) observed that wireworm larvae migrate to the upper soil layer during spring and move deeper in winter. This migration pattern represents a vulnerability in their feeding behaviour, which scientists have exploited to minimize infestation. The discrepancy in damage incidence across different crops and locations can also be attributed to tillage practices employed by farmers. Additionally, the history of wireworm occurrence is a crucial factor. Morales-Rodriguez et al. (2014) found a maximum of 36.8 per cent damage in cereal crops with no prior history of incidence, compared to 62.7 per cent in fields with a history of infestation. These factors collectively contribute to the intensity of damage. The present findings align with Sorensen and Baker (1994), who observed wireworm incidence in crops such as maize, sugarcane, potato, groundnut, wheat, sorghum, various grasses, millets, flowers, and vegetables. Additionally, crops like carrots, cucurbits, onions, sugar beets, beans, peas, peppers, and celery have also been found to be affected by wireworms (Bessin and Townsend 2004; Chaput 2011; Wilson 1940). These findings clearly indicate that wireworms are polyphagous pests with a wide range of hosts. This preliminary research provides essential baseline data for further studies on this pest and will support the development of management strategies for insect pests in field crops. Consequently, it is anticipated that wireworms may cause significant losses to the field crops in the Karnataka region. There is currently negligible information about the control and management of this pest; therefore, further research on these aspects is urgently needed. Declarations Acknowledgment The author is thankful to the advisory committee members and classmates for their technical help and critical advice during the research work. The authors are also grateful to the Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agricultural, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad (India) for providing necessary facilities. Authors’ Contributions Anandmurthy, T. executed the research and wrote the manuscript, P. S. Tippannavar and Anandkumar, V, conceived the idea and supervised the work and M. V. Matti, Dileepkumar N. T and Divyashree, H. J. revised and reviewed the manuscript. Funding Not applicable Availability of data and materials The original contributions presented in the study are included in the article, further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding authors. Ethics approval and consent to participate Not applicable Consent for publication Not applicable Competing interests The authors declare that they have no competing interests. References Bessin, R, Townsend L (2004) Wireworms. ENTFACT-120, college of agriculture, food and environment. University of Kentucky, Lexington, ky, USA. https://entomology.ca.uky.edu. Chaput J (2011) Managing wireworms in vegetables crops. Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Ontario. Canada., http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca ›. Claudia R, Ellen R (2013) Control methods and monitoring of Agriotes wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae). J Plant Dis Protect. 120 (1): 4-15. Furlan L (2005). An IPM approach targeted against wireworms: what has been done and what has to be done. IOBC/wprs Bull, 28(2): 91-100. Keiser AM, Haberli Stamp P (2012) Drycore appears to result from an interaction between Rhizoctonia solani and wireworm (Agriotes spp.) evidence from a 3-year field survey. Field Crops Res 128(5): 147-155. Miles HW Petherbridge. FR (1927) Investigation on the control of wireworms. Ann. Appl. Biol. 14(3):359–387. Morales-Rodriguez ARO Neill Wanner KW (2014) Survey of wireworm (Coleoptera: Elateridae) species infesting cereal crops in montana. Pan-Pacific. Entomol 90(3): 115-124. Parker WE, Howard J J (2002) The biology and management of wireworms (Agriotes spp.) on potato with particular reference to the U.K. Agr Forest Entomol. 3, 85-98. Ritter C, Richter E (2013) Control methods and monitoring of Agriotes wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae). J Pl Dis Prot 120(1): 4-15. Saussure S, Manue P, Jean BT, Philippe L, Sylvain P (2015) Management of wireworm damage in maize fields using new, landscape-scale strategies. Agron. Sustain. Dev.35: 793-802. Sorensen KA, Baker JR (1994) Insects and related pests of vegetables - some important, common and potential pests in the south eastern United States. North Carolina Cooperative. Extension Service, Raleigh (US). Seal DR (1991) Distribution and density of wireworms and their damage in relation to different cultivars of sweet potato. Proceedings of the annual meeting of the Florida State Horticultural Society, 104: 284-286. Seal DR, Sorely R, Chalfant RB (1992) Seasonal abundance and spatial distribution of wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae) in Georgia sweet potato fields. J Econ Entomol 85: 1802-1808. Traugott M, Benefer CM, Blackshaw RP, Herk WG, Vernon RS, (2015) Biology, ecology and control of elaterid beetles in agricultural land. Annu. Rev. Entomol., 60(8): 313-334. Wilson JW (1940) Preliminary report on wireworm investigations in the Everglades. Fla Entomol 23: 1-6. Plates Plates 1 to 5 are available in the Supplementary Files section. Supplementary Files Plates.docx Cite Share Download PDF Status: Published Journal Publication published 23 Dec, 2024 Read the published version in International Journal of Tropical Insect Science → Version 1 posted Reviewers agreed at journal 05 Aug, 2024 Reviewers invited by journal 05 Aug, 2024 Editor assigned by journal 19 Jul, 2024 First submitted to journal 17 Jul, 2024 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-4760400","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":336286312,"identity":"ab6d85de-1e94-45c3-a352-25898de67e98","order_by":0,"name":"ANANDMURTHY T","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA/klEQVRIiWNgGAWjYLACHhAhAcQfKmyAJGPjAaK08EgAlc44kwbS0kC8lmbetsNgAbxa+Gc3P3vwNudwvr10j/kDnjPn7da2HwbaUmMTjUuLxJ1j5oZztx227JE5Y9ggUXE7eduZRKCWY2m5Dbj03Egwk+bddtiARyLHsMHgzO1kswNALYwNh3Fqkb+R/g2hJbHtXLLZ+Yf4tRjcyEGy5WDbATuzGwRsMbyRUyY5d1u6Ac+NtMKZDWeSE8xuAG1JwOMXuRvp2yTebrM2YJ+RvOHznwo7e7Pz6Q8ffKixwe19BOAwAJGJYJUJhJWDAPsDEGlPnOJRMApGwSgYSQAAzKtoPaqvhTAAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9310-9034","institution":"University of Agricultural Sciences Dharwad","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"ANANDMURTHY","middleName":"","lastName":"T","suffix":""},{"id":336286313,"identity":"6af9c4a0-26af-4251-9e60-45c092d6c098","order_by":1,"name":"P. 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They cause damage by feeding on germinating seeds and young seedlings by feeding roots and tunnelling through lower stem parts and root crops. Hence, plants might suffer reduced water, nutrient supply and delay plant development or cause death, further root crops obtain a reduced quality and quantity of marketable yield. Adults are nocturnal and usually nectarivores (feeding on nectar), pollen feeders and some are phytophagous and they are typically found hiding under organic material during the day. (Seal 1991, Seal \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e 1992).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWireworms damage seeds, roots, stems, tubers, and other plant parts by feeding, chewing, or drilling into below-ground structures, which often leads to secondary infections with plant diseases (bacteria or fungi). This results in plants that either fail to emerge or produce weak growth (Keiser et al., 2012). Later in the growing season, wireworm injury can stimulate excessive tillering and inhibit wheat head formation. This injury causes wilting, stunting, crop thinning, delayed plant maturation, and seedling death, leading to yield reduction and decreased crop value (Claudia and Ellen, 2013).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn many fields, wireworm infestation results in uneven plant stands, allowing weeds to compete with crops for available nutrients and moisture, and preventing or reducing the normal tillering of adjacent uninjured plants. Secondary infections from various diseases can further reduce crop quality and quantity. Although wireworms were generally considered a minor pest for many crops in most regions of the world, they have become increasingly problematic in various crops over the past two decades (Parker and Howard, 2001; Ritter and Richter, 2013; Traugott et al., 2015). Consequently, scientific interest in this complex group of insect pests has resurged. In light of the severity of the problem posed by wireworms, studies were undertaken to examine their host range in endemic areas of northern Karnataka, India.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"MATERIALS AND METHODS","content":"\u003cp\u003eTo study the host range of wireworm, major crops belonging to cereals, pulses, onion, chilli, ginger, oilseeds, vegetables and sugarcane were surveyed. During the survey, these major crops was observed for the incidence of wireworm in the field and also observed for the stage of plant growth damaged across various crops. Similarly, per cent damage due to wireworm was worked out by using the formula.\u003cdiv id=\"Equa\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e\u003cdiv format=\"TEX\" class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equa\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\n$$\\:\\text{P}\\text{e}\\text{r}\\:\\text{c}\\text{e}\\text{n}\\text{t}\\:\\text{i}\\text{n}\\text{c}\\text{i}\\text{d}\\text{e}\\text{n}\\text{c}\\text{e}\\:=\\frac{\\text{T}\\text{o}\\text{t}\\text{a}\\text{l}\\:\\text{N}\\text{u}\\text{m}\\text{b}\\text{e}\\text{r}\\:\\text{o}\\text{f}\\:\\text{p}\\text{l}\\text{a}\\text{n}\\text{t}\\text{s}\\:\\text{d}\\text{a}\\text{m}\\text{a}\\text{g}\\text{e}\\text{d}\\:}{\\text{T}\\text{o}\\text{t}\\text{a}\\text{l}\\:\\text{N}\\text{u}\\text{m}\\text{b}\\text{e}\\text{r}\\:\\text{o}\\text{f}\\:\\text{p}\\text{l}\\text{a}\\text{n}\\text{t}\\text{s}\\:\\text{o}\\text{b}\\text{s}\\text{e}\\text{r}\\text{v}\\text{e}\\text{d}}\\text{X}\\:100\\:$$\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWireworm grubs were collected by digging one square meter area at selected spots, based on the visual symptoms expressed by the plant in the field. Collected wireworm was stored in 95 per cent ethanol, assigned a unique identifier in the form of a physical barcode and kept at room temperature. Voucher specimens were maintained at the Department of Entomology, University of Agricultural Science, Dharwad, India. The specimen was sent to All India Network Project on Soil Arthropods (Division of Entomology, University of Agricultural Science, GKVK, Bangalore, India) for identification.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"RESULTS","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe results of the host range of wireworms recorded during two successive seasons are presented in Table \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e. Surveys conducted in northern Karnataka, including the districts of Dharwad, Belagavi, Bagalkot, and Haveri, revealed that various crops such as maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger, and onion were infested by wireworms (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). The infestation stages varied from crop to crop.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStudies on host range of wireworm, \u003cem\u003eLanelater fuscipes\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCrop\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eStage of plant infested\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"3\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIncidence (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2020\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDharwad\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMaize\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSeedling stage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e28.85\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30.65\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.75\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGroundnut\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGermination and pod development stage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20.00\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21.87\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20.93\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBelagavi\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSugarcane\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGermination stage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37.50\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36.82\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e37.16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMaize\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSeedling stage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26.85\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33.64\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30.24\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBagalkot\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSugarcane\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGermination stage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33.45\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e38.76\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36.10\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOnion\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVegetative stage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21.62\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30.19\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25.90\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHaveri\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGinger\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVegetative stage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27.50\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26.82\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e27.16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMaize\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSeedling stage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19.50\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22.66\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e21.08\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA survey conducted in Dharwad during the first year revealed that maize and groundnut crops were infested by wireworms. Maize showed an infestation rate of 28.85 per cent at the seedling stage, while groundnut had a 20 per cent infestation rate at the germination and pod development stages. In the second season, similar results were observed, with maize having a 30.65 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage and groundnut having a 21.87 per cent infestation rate at the germination and pod development stages. Pooled data analysis for the Dharwad district indicated an overall infestation rate of 29.75 per cent in maize at the seedling stage and 20.93 per cent in groundnut at the germination and pod development stages.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Belagavi district, during the first year, sugarcane and maize crops were infested by wireworms. Sugarcane exhibited a 37.50 per cent infestation rate at the germination stage, while maize had a 26.85 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage. In the second season, similar patterns were observed, with sugarcane showing a 36.82 per cent infestation rate at the germination stage and maize showing a 33.64 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage. Pooled data indicated a 37.16 per cent infestation rate in sugarcane at the germination stage and a 30.24 per cent infestation rate in maize at the seedling stage.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDifferent crops were infested by wireworms at Bagalkot district, the infestation due to wireworm was noticed in different crops viz., sugarcane and onion. In sugarcane, 33.45 per cent infestation was recorded at germination stage, whereas, 21.62 per cent infestation was recorded at vegetative stage in onion. In the second season, similar crops were observed, with sugarcane exhibiting a 38.76 per cent infestation rate at the germination stage and onion showing a 30.19 per cent infestation rate at the vegetative stage. Pooled data revealed a 36.10 per cent infestation rate in sugarcane at the germination stage and a 25.90 per cent infestation rate in onion at the vegetative stage.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Haveri district, during the first year, ginger and maize were surveyed for wireworm infestation. Ginger showed a 27.50 per cent infestation rate at the vegetative stage, while maize had a 19.50 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage. In the second season, ginger exhibited a 26.82 per cent infestation rate at the vegetative stage and maize showed a 22.66 per cent infestation rate at the seedling stage. Pooled data indicated a 27.16 per cent infestation rate in ginger at the vegetative stage and a 21.08 per cent infestation rate in maize at the seedling stage.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"DISCUSSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eIncidence of wireworm was recorded in various crops\u0026mdash;maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger, and onion\u0026mdash;at different stages of crop growth across four districts (Plates 1 to 5). The highest incidence, 37.16% damage, was observed in sugarcane at the germination stage in Belagavi district. Similarly, in Bagalkot district, sugarcane crops were infested with a 36.10% incidence. Maize crops experienced damage rates of 30.34%, 29.75%, and 21.28% in the Belagavi, Dharwad, and Haveri districts, respectively, at the seedling stage. Ginger, onion, and groundnut also registered damage rates of 27.17%, 29.90%, and 20.93% at the vegetative stage. Notably, groundnut crops experienced damage at both the germination and pod filling stages.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe variation in wireworm incidence across different crops and locations can be attributed to various factors such as soil edaphic conditions, organic matter content, tillage practices, and abiotic factors like precipitation, soil temperature, and humidity. Several studies have explored the damage and factors associated with wireworm infestation. For instance, Saussure \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e (2015) demonstrated that tillage is a significant factor influencing the intensity of wireworm damage, a view supported by Furlan (2005). Miles and Petherbridge (1927) observed that wireworm larvae migrate to the upper soil layer during spring and move deeper in winter. This migration pattern represents a vulnerability in their feeding behaviour, which scientists have exploited to minimize infestation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe discrepancy in damage incidence across different crops and locations can also be attributed to tillage practices employed by farmers. Additionally, the history of wireworm occurrence is a crucial factor. Morales-Rodriguez \u003cem\u003eet al.\u003c/em\u003e (2014) found a maximum of 36.8 per cent damage in cereal crops with no prior history of incidence, compared to 62.7 per cent in fields with a history of infestation. These factors collectively contribute to the intensity of damage.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe present findings align with Sorensen and Baker (1994), who observed wireworm incidence in crops such as maize, sugarcane, potato, groundnut, wheat, sorghum, various grasses, millets, flowers, and vegetables. Additionally, crops like carrots, cucurbits, onions, sugar beets, beans, peas, peppers, and celery have also been found to be affected by wireworms (Bessin and Townsend 2004; Chaput 2011; Wilson 1940). These findings clearly indicate that wireworms are polyphagous pests with a wide range of hosts. This preliminary research provides essential baseline data for further studies on this pest and will support the development of management strategies for insect pests in field crops. Consequently, it is anticipated that wireworms may cause significant losses to the field crops in the Karnataka region. There is currently negligible information about the control and management of this pest; therefore, further research on these aspects is urgently needed.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eAcknowledgment\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe author is thankful to the advisory committee members and classmates for their technical help and critical advice during the research work. The authors are also grateful to the Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agricultural, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad (India) for providing necessary facilities.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eAuthors’ Contributions\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnandmurthy, T. executed the research\u0026nbsp;and wrote the manuscript,\u0026nbsp;P. S. Tippannavar and Anandkumar, V, conceived the idea and supervised the work and M. V. Matti, Dileepkumar N. T and Divyashree, H. J. revised and reviewed the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAvailability of data and materials\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original contributions presented in the study are included in the article, further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding authors.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent for publication\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting interests\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare that they have no competing interests.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBessin, R, Townsend L (2004) Wireworms. ENTFACT-120, college of agriculture, food and environment. University of Kentucky, Lexington, ky, USA. https://entomology.ca.uky.edu.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChaput J (2011) Managing wireworms in vegetables crops. Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Ontario. Canada., http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca \u0026rsaquo;.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClaudia R, Ellen R (2013) Control methods and monitoring of Agriotes wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae). J Plant Dis Protect. 120 (1): 4-15. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFurlan L (2005). An IPM approach targeted against wireworms: what has been done and what has to be done. IOBC/wprs Bull, 28(2): 91-100.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeiser AM, Haberli Stamp P (2012) Drycore appears to result from an interaction between Rhizoctonia solani and wireworm (Agriotes spp.) evidence from a 3-year field survey. \u003cem\u003eField Crops Res\u003c/em\u003e 128(5): 147-155.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMiles HW Petherbridge. FR (1927) Investigation on the control of wireworms. Ann. Appl. Biol. 14(3):359\u0026ndash;387. \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMorales-Rodriguez ARO Neill Wanner KW (2014) Survey of wireworm (Coleoptera: Elateridae) species infesting cereal crops in montana. Pan-Pacific. Entomol 90(3): 115-124.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eParker WE, Howard J J (2002) The biology and management of wireworms (Agriotes spp.) on potato with particular reference to the U.K. Agr Forest Entomol. 3, 85-98.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRitter C, Richter E (2013) Control methods and monitoring of Agriotes wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae). J Pl Dis Prot 120(1): 4-15.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSaussure S, Manue P, Jean BT, Philippe L, Sylvain P (2015) Management of wireworm damage in maize fields using new, landscape-scale strategies. Agron. Sustain. Dev.35: 793-802.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSorensen KA, Baker JR (1994) Insects and related pests of vegetables - some important, common and potential pests in the south eastern United States. North Carolina Cooperative. Extension Service, Raleigh (US).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeal DR (1991) Distribution and density of wireworms and their damage in relation to different cultivars of sweet potato. Proceedings of the annual meeting of the Florida State Horticultural Society, 104: 284-286.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeal DR, Sorely R, Chalfant RB (1992) Seasonal abundance and spatial distribution of wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae) in Georgia sweet potato fields. \u003cem\u003eJ Econ Entomol\u003c/em\u003e85: 1802-1808.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTraugott M, Benefer CM, Blackshaw RP, Herk WG, Vernon RS, (2015) Biology, ecology and control of elaterid beetles in agricultural land. Annu. Rev. Entomol., 60(8): 313-334.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWilson JW (1940) Preliminary report on wireworm investigations in the Everglades. \u003cem\u003eFla Entomol\u003c/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e23: 1-6.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Plates","content":"\u003cp\u003ePlates 1 to 5 are available in the Supplementary Files section.\u003c/p\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":true,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":true,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"international-journal-of-tropical-insect-science","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"jtis","sideBox":"Learn more about [International Journal of Tropical Insect Science](http://link.springer.com/journal/42690)","snPcode":"42690","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/jtis/default2.aspx","title":"International Journal of Tropical Insect Science","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"Springer Hybrid","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":false},"keywords":"Wireworm, secondary infection, host range, Lanelater fuscipes","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4760400/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-4760400/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eWireworm belongs to the Coleoptera order in the family Elateridae and is primarily located in Northern Karnataka, India. Recently, this highly successful pest was observed infesting maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger and onion crops, marking a new record of insect infestation. The pest causes damage to seeds, roots, stems, tubers and other plant parts by feeding, chewing or drilling into below-ground plant structures. This damage enhances secondary infections with plant diseases (bacteria or fungi), leading to plants that either fail to emerge or to produce good growth. The initial sighting of this insect occurred in various districts of Northern Karnataka, India. However, during a thorough two-year investigation from 2020 to 2021, it was found spreading to neighbouring areas. Consequently, without timely control measures, it poses a significant threat to various crops in Karnataka and adjoining areas. A survey was carried out in farmers' fields at regular intervals during crop growth. The host range and per cent incidence of wireworm were noted on various crops, including maize, groundnut, sugarcane, ginger and onion. Relatively higher incidence was noticed in maize at the seedling stage, in groundnut at both the germination as well as pod-filling stages and in sugarcane at the germination stage. However, in ginger and onion, higher incidence was recorded during the vegetative stage. Irrespective of the crop, wireworm incidence ranged from 20.93 to 37.16 percent. Wireworm grubs were collected from fields and sent to the All India Network Project on Soil Arthropods, for identification. They were identified as \u003cem\u003eLanelater fuscipes.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"First report of the occurrence of wireworm (Lanelater fuscipes) (Fabricius) as a pest in different field crops in India","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2024-08-30 05:48:21","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-4760400/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"","date":"2024-08-05T16:33:00+00:00","index":0,"fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2024-08-05T16:28:41+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2024-07-19T12:15:56+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"International Journal of Tropical Insect Science","date":"2024-07-18T02:28:19+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"international-journal-of-tropical-insect-science","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"jtis","sideBox":"Learn more about [International Journal of Tropical Insect Science](http://link.springer.com/journal/42690)","snPcode":"42690","submissionUrl":"https://www.editorialmanager.com/jtis/default2.aspx","title":"International Journal of Tropical Insect Science","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"em","reportingPortfolio":"Springer Hybrid","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":false}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"09ae2dad-398f-4173-a267-bb6ed68fb94b","owner":[],"postedDate":"August 30th, 2024","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"published-in-journal","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2024-12-30T16:07:59+00:00","versionOfRecord":{"articleIdentity":"rs-4760400","link":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s42690-024-01409-z","journal":{"identity":"international-journal-of-tropical-insect-science","isVorOnly":false,"title":"International Journal of Tropical Insect Science"},"publishedOn":"2024-12-23 15:57:36","publishedOnDateReadable":"December 23rd, 2024"},"versionCreatedAt":"2024-08-30 05:48:21","video":"","vorDoi":"10.1007/s42690-024-01409-z","vorDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s42690-024-01409-z","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-4760400","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-4760400","identity":"rs-4760400","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"qtupq5eGEP_6zYnWcrvyt","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}