CDFA Pest Prevention Plant Regulation Practice Exam

What is the main characteristic of the white-fringed beetle's life cycle?

1. it relies solely on the adult stage

2. it has both larval and pupal stages

3. it requires moist soil for development

4. it overwinters primarily as larvae

The correct answer is: it overwinters primarily as larvae

The white-fringed beetle exhibits a specific life cycle characteristic where it primarily overwinters as larvae. This adaptation allows the larvae to survive the colder months while remaining in the soil, ready to emerge and continue their development when conditions become favorable. Overwintering as larvae is particularly advantageous for this species since it helps them avoid the harsher environmental conditions that adults might face and ensures that they can exploit resources effectively as soon as spring arrives. In contrast, other life stages, such as adults or pupae, do not have the same level of resilience during winter months in many climates, making the larval overwintering strategy a key component of their life cycle that contributes to the population dynamics of the beetle. Understanding this aspect of the white-fringed beetle's life cycle can help inform pest management strategies, especially in agricultural settings where their presence may affect crops.