Damage to corn roots will make plants more susceptible to lodging. Peanut pods can also be damaged causing reduced yields. Cucurbits may be further damaged when rootworms vector bacterial wilt. Maize chlorotic mottle virus may also be transmitted to corn. Life cycles of rootworms are about 30-40 days with about 3 weeks in the larval stage.
Adults lay eggs on the soil surface near plants.
Larvae burrow into the soil and underground portions of the host plant. David Adams, UGA the soil. Adults emerge and feed on plants causing significant damage on some. Rootworm damage is most common in heavy, damp soils. Any cultural practices that helps dry the soil surface will reduce survival of rootworm eggs and early-instar larvae.