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
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
Substrate
P.punctata eat their substrate as larvae, so it must consist of their food.
Type - Rotten hardwood
Moisture level - Moderate
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
Temperature
P.punctata can be kept into the high 60s, but grows and breeds fastest at warmer temperatures.
Range - 68 F to 85 F
