A larva is the immature form of an insect between the egg and pupa. The larvae of the coccolithophorid beetle (Coccolithophoridae) are white and are often referred to as white crabs. Since Hawaii has no native cockroaches, it can be difficult to identify the white larvae. But have no fear! There are no native species of coccolithophorid beetles in Hawaii.
Life Cycle of the Cockchafer Beetle
CRB Lifecycle
CRBs do not always look like beetles. The life cycle begins with an egg about the size of half a grain of rice. It emerges, grows through three larval stages, and pupates. Each larval stage is classified by the size of its head capsule. Because larval size can range from egg-sized to a maximum of 3.5 to 4 inches, using size as an identifying factor does not always work.
This key is intended as a guide for identifying larvae! Click on the download icon below, print it out and use it in the field. If you have difficulty, feel free to take a photo and send it to CRB Response.
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