Charles   Actually, SHB are known to be attracted to melons, etc. - it's the fruit.   These beetles are scavengers looking for protein, not generalists that would eat weeds.


Sorry Professor,  I wasn't clear  I was referring to the soil moisture levels.  If the ground has enough moisture to grow plants/ crops  at a furious pace,  is probably just right for beetles to pupate.


As of yet we have seen no evidence of SHB using melons,  or even slight changes in numbers in the melon patches in this area.  It seems the are very dependant on the heat from the bees  as well as the humidity in the off seasons.


Charles

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