Potato: Potato flea beetles
categories: Potato Potato Insects Vegetables
last review date: 2025-04-16 07:35
Photo by: R.S. Byther
Biology
Flea beetles are small, brown to metallic black beetles with a habit of jumping like fleas when disturbed. They feed on many plants including potato, tomato, radish, spinach, and many weeds. Adults eat small round holes in the leaves, usually early in the season. The larvae typically feed on underground portions of the host plants, causing minor to severe damage in the form of winding grooves on the potato surface or as pinholes bored 1⁄2″ or less into the potato. The holes can serve as entry points for tuber rots and other problems.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Keep garden and adjacent areas clear of weeds which may attract flea beetles.
- Cut away damaged portions of tubers before use.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Apply according to label instructions when beetles or damage is first seen.
- Several applications may be needed.
Approved Pesticides
Examples of pesticides that are legal for home use in Washington State are listed below.
The list may not include all products registered for this use.
Additional Images
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Photo by: Unknown
Photo by: S.J. Collman
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Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.