Hairy Rose Chafer (Tropinota hirta, also known as Epicometis hirta)

Hairy Rose Chafer (Tropinota hirta, also known as Epicometis hirta) is one of the most dangerous pests in horticulture and agriculture, causing significant damage to crops, especially during the spring season.

How does it cause damage?

• Attacks plant buds and flowers;

• Feeds on the generative organs of flowers (stamens and ovaries);

• Causes flower drying and reduces fruit set;

• As a result, crop productivity decreases significantly.

Pest characteristics:

• Size: 8–12 mm;

• Matte black (dull) body color covered with grayish hairs;

• White spots can be observed on the wings;

• Mainly damages flowers of fruit trees (apple, pear, apricot, peach) and berry crops.

Development cycle and activity:

• Overwinters in the soil;

• Becomes active from late March to May;

• Adult beetles feed on flowers;

• Larvae develop in the soil and feed on organic matter.

Distribution:

It is distributed in steppe and semi-desert regions of Europe and Asia, including agricultural areas of Tajikistan.

Protection recommendations:

• Proper agrotechnical soil management;

• Removal of plant residues;

• Mechanical collection of beetles;

• If necessary, application of approved insecticides.

Main groups of commonly used insecticides:

• Pyrethroids (deltamethrin, cypermethrin, etc.);

• Neonicotinoids (imidacloprid, thiamethoxam);

• Biological products (spinosad — relatively safer).

Note:

The use of any pesticides should be carried out only according to the manufacturer’s instructions and in compliance with agricultural regulations.

Conclusion:

Timely control of the Hairy Rose Chafer can significantly reduce crop losses and help maintain the productivity of agricultural crops.