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Cucumber Beetle #879502

Asked July 30, 2024, 8:56 PM EDT

I have been invested with the striped ones (few spotted here and there). I have greatly reduced them. The cucumbers too the hardest hit. Is it still eat the cucumbers and squash? The cucumbers are still growing and the squash looks great.

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thanks for your question.  In order for me to provide you with my best answer, I would appreciate receiving a picture of this insect.  Upon receiving a picture,  I will respond immediately.

Thank you.  

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 30, 2024, 9:00 PM EDT


Allyssa Harrington

On Tue, Jul 30, 2024, 8:00 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied August 02, 2024, 1:44 PM EDT

Thank you, Allyssa.

This critter is a Striped Cucumber Beetle (Acalymma vittatum). Why should we be surprised that it is found on your cucumbers? The cucumber fruit should not be affected. This critter is only after the leaves and roots. It will probably lead to a premature demise of your plants. Please don’t ignore its presence. However just to err on the side of full precaution, thoroughly wash all your cukes before eating. See:

https://vegedge.umn.edu/insect-pest-profiles/striped-cucumber-beetle

https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/cucumber-beetles

https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/VEG/BEAN/striped_cucumber_beetle.html

Good Luck. Please get back to us if you have further related questions.


An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 03, 2024, 8:45 PM EDT

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