Beetles on Cucumbers
What Diseases Do Cucumber Beetles Spread? Cucumber beetles are known to be a significant pest for various crops, especially cucumbers and other cucurbit plants. Bacterial Wilt: The primary disease spread by cucumber beetles. Pathogen: The bacterial wilt is caused by Erwinia tracheiphila. Transmission: Beetles transmit the bacterium by feeding on the plants. Symptoms: Initial wilting of leaves and vines, eventually leading to plant death. Overwintering: Beetles can carry the bacteria through winter. Host Plants: Primarily cucumbers, muskmelons, pumpkins, and squash. Early Sign: Leaves may wilt during the day and recover at night initially. Spread: Bacteria spread within the plant's vascular system. Infection Source: Beetles become carriers after feeding on infected plants. Preventive Measures: Crop rotation, use of resistant varieties, and good field hygiene. Vector Species: Striped cucumber beetles (Acalymma vittatum) and spotted cucumber beetles (Diabrotica undecimpu...