Economic damage to peanuts is caused by the larval stage of this pest. Development from egg to adult requires 30 to 40 days. There may be one or more generations in a field during a single year. The most effective control measure is a preventive application granular insecticide applied just prior to pegging time. It cuts the tap root of the plant below the surface of the soil and the plant dies.
Infestations occur where peanuts follow bahia-grass.
Check closely for these large grubs when land is being prepared prior to turning. Thorough soil preparation, preferably with a power-driven rotary mixer, may partially alleviate this problem. They feed on pegs and pods, bore into the plant near the soil line and tunnel throughout roots and stems. They live in silken tubes beneath the soil surface. Damage to peanuts is usually more severe in dry weather.