Epsilon Open Archive

Abstract

This study of the Melolontha melolontha L. and M. hippocastani Fabr. is the last of the previous published monogrnphies concerning the harmful beetles of the Scarabaeidae family. 1. Phyllopertha horticola L. 1953. 2. Amphimallus solstitialis L. 1956. 3. Serica brunnea L. 1958. The author reviews the regions affected by both species of these beetles, and the research which has been carried out in several countries. The author deals in detail with the occurrence of the cockchafer, his life, and the damage he does to agriculture and forestry in Scandinavia, especially in Sweden. Historical data are given about the considerable harm done to agriculture and also about the control of the beetles; i.e. the collecting and the destroying of them. An account is given of the reduction of the beetles in Sweden as well as in Denmarlk at the beginning of this century, and the cause of this. In the sixties a rapid breeding started again in several places in southern Sweden. In order to fight the beetles, cultivated land was treated with insecticides (aldrin). Biological ways of control were also tried. The cockchafer did most damage to the forest tree nurseries. The periodic enormous multiplying of the cockchafer is limited by unfavourable weather conditions and the rationalization of agriculture and forestry.