WIREWORM
Description
Wireworms are larvae of a group of beetles commonly called click beetles. Wireworm larvae can be distinguished from other immature insects by their tough wire-like appearance in contrast to most soft-bodied immature stages of other insects. These larvae are shiny, yellow-brown, slender and hard-bodied. They range in size from 1/2 inch to over 1 inch (1.2-2.5 cm) in length, depending on the species. Adult wireworms, depending on species, are 0.5-2.0 cm (0.25-0.75 in) long and dull brown to black in colour. There are almost 400 species of wireworms found across Canada. While most are harmless, several species are serious pests of cereals, potatoes and corn.

Life Cycle
The larval stage of wireworms requires from two to six years or more to complete. In contrast to the long period of larval development, the pupae and adult stage require only a few months before eggs are laid near grassy weeds and the cycle repeats itself.

Since grasses are the primary host plant of various wireworm species, the greatest potential for wireworms problems occurs where there are significant grass weed problems or in crops following pasture or sod.

Damage
Wireworm larvae tunnel into potatoes, causing shallow to deep holes. The wounds reduce the quality of the crop and may increase susceptibility to diseases such as blackleg and rhizoctonia. In cereal crops and corn, wireworms often burrow into shoots causing plants to appear stunted, wilt or die.