It is not native to CA, but was found there in 1959. Only females are found in CA and reproduction occurs parthenogenetically. Life Cycle Adults enter diapause and overwinter in accumulated leaf litter around trees, in the base of bunch grasses, and in other sheltered places. The indirect flight muscles degenerate while overwintering. Spring temperatures determine the rate of muscle regeneration.
Adults fly from overwintering sites and begin feeding on host plants.
Adult feeding scars can be found on rice that has just emerged. Eggs are deposited in the leaf sheath below the water surface. Small larvae can be found inside roots, while larger larvae feed on the roots. Larvae complete development in about 4 weeks. Pupation occurs in an oval, water-tight cocoon attached to a root.