Insect · GBIF taxon 1057422
Ten-Lined June Beetle
Polyphylla decemlineataAlso known as Watermelon Beetle, Striped June Beetle, Ten-Lined Scarab
Ten-lined June beetles are striking, heavy-bodied scarabs easily recognized by four bold white stripes along each wing cover and distinct fan-like antennae on males. Adults emerge in midsummer to feed on pine foliage and gather around artificial lights, emitting a surprising squeaking or hissing sound by pushing air past their wings when disturbed. Underground, their large white grubs spend up to three years chewing on roots, playing an important role in soil aeration while occasionally impacting cultivated crops.
NocturnalStripedAttracted to Light
1 / 7—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Pine needles
- Tree foliage
- Plant roots
Predators
- Bats
- Owls
- Small Mammals
ThreatsPesticide application, soil disruption, and agricultural pest control.
HabitatsConiferous forests, woodlands, orchards, sandy soils, and suburban gardens.
Life span2–3 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyScarabaeidae
- SpeciesPolyphylla decemlineata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Harmless to humans; safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Nighttime Spotting: Check porch lights and window screens during warm midsummer nights.
- Listen Close: Listen for a faint hissing sound if the beetle feels threatened or cornered.
- Gentle Observation: Let the beetle walk on an open palm without squeezing its hard shell.
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