Question of the Week – Squash Beetles

This week, the question was: What is this critter that was found on the underside of a cucumber leaf?

This spiky looking thing is a squash beetle larva. This is one of two species in the lady beetle family that feed on vegetable crops. The other is the Mexican bean beetle. Squash beetle adults look like the familiar beneficial lady beetle. They are yellow to orange-colored with black spots and a dome-shaped appearance. Read more about squash beetles here.

This week’s question is from Justin Ballew, Extension Fruit and Vegetable Research Associate.