However, N. viridula continues to have a significant negative impact on particular crops, such as macadamia nut. This polyphagous scarabaeid beetle was introduced into Hawaii sometime before 1896. Introduction into Hawaii probably was accomplished by larvae in the soil of plants. Adults feed at night on the leaves of a great variety of plants. At least 255 plant species in 56 families have been recorded as hosts, including rose, grape, cycad, okra, beans, soybean, pigeon pea, sweet potato, eggplant, maize, cucumber, asparagus, taro, banana, and cotton.
Damage is caused by the adult.
Attacked leaves show numerous small holes, or may become entirely skeletonized. Larvae feed on decaying plant matter in the soil, and only rarely attack live roots. Although parasitoids and predators have been introduced into Hawaii, no satisfactory control measures have been developed for A. sinicus , and it remains a significant pest.