Which beetle is a major pest of potatoes and is often studied in Missouri entomology?

• A. Potato leafhopper
• B. European corn borer
• C. Soybean aphid
• D. Colorado potato beetle

Answer: (D)

Potatoes have a well-known beetle adversary that causes serious defoliation and yield loss, making it a classic subject for pest-management study. This beetle is the Colorado potato beetle, easily recognized by its yellow body with black stripes. It’s one of the most important potato pests in temperate regions, which is why entomologists in Missouri—and many other places—study its life cycle, feeding damage, and resistance to insecticides to develop effective control strategies. Because it directly threatens potato production and has a long history of management challenges, it stands out as a primary focus in Missouri entomology.

The other insects listed aren’t beetles and don’t have the same distinctive, major impact on potatoes. A potato leafhopper is a leafhopper and can affect several crops but is not the primary potato pest; the European corn borer is a moth that mainly targets corn; and the soybean aphid is an aphid that mainly affects soybeans.