Pelidnota punctata (Grapevine Beetle)

Pelidnota punctata

(Grapevine Beetle)

Pelidnotata punctata are some of our most easily recognized native scarabs. The eight-spotted adults range in color from tan to burnt orange, with misty blue eyes. Larvae are much less distinct, and difficult to identify without taking a look at the ventral setae. As their common name would suggest, this species specializes on Grapevines (Vitis spp.), as well as the closely related Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia).

Adult Size - Male (23 mm), Female (23 mm)

Climbing Ability - None

Flying Ability - Adults can fly

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Enclosure

P.punctata aren't particularly large or crowding sensitive, so their enclosure doesn't need to be spacious space.

Ventilation level - Moderate

Hides - Necessary

Barrier/Secure Lid - Necessary

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Substrate

P.punctata eat their substrate as larvae, so it must consist of their food.

Type - Rotten hardwood

Moisture level - Moderate

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Food

P.punctata aren't very picky as larvae, eating decayed hardwood. Adults, however, require fresh Grape and/Virginia Creeper leaves.

Type -

Adults: Fresh Grape and/or Virginia Creeper leaves

Larvae: Decayed hardwood

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Temperature

P.punctata can be kept into the high 60s, but grows and breeds fastest at warmer temperatures.

Range - 68 F to 85 F