Sugarcane Wireworm

Sugarcane Wireworm (Agrypnus spp.) are named for the supposed wire-like appearance of their larvae. True wireworm adults are elongated beetles that jump and click when disturbed. Larvae grow to 35 mm long, are shiny and cream, yellow or tan, with three pairs of legs behind the head. Unlike false wireworms, they are soft-bodied, and flatter in cross-section with a flattened head. Adult beetles are 25 mm long, grey to brown and are known as click beetles. Risk period Immediately after sowing and early seedling growth, especially if germination is delayed by cold, wet weather. Larvae bore into germinating seed/billets and chew on seedling roots and shoots resulting in reduced vigour or seedling death.