Serica sp. – Leaf-chafing Scarab

Adult: 6-8mm.

Order Coleoptera/ Family Scarabaeidae – Scarabs

The c-shaped Serica larvae are root feeders of various shrubs like Manzanita and Ceanothus and are quite common on these and other plants on the reserve. The adults may defoliate fruit trees at times, feeding on flowers, buds and leaves. Serica are always attracted to lights and abundant during the summer months and may be readily separated from common “june” beetles by the iridescence of the body.