This is an inexpensive and safe alternative to chemical control. The larval grubs feed on the organic material and develop quickly. Heat given off by the compost allows the grubs to remain active the entire year. When their feeding is disturbed, the grubs roll over on their backs and inch away, using their body segments, not legs, for traction. During the spring, underground chambers are formed by the grubs in which to pupate.
Winged adults emerge a few months later.
The figeater can readily eat overripe or bird-damaged figs, peaches, and grapes, but its weak mouthparts are ineffective in ripping open most other plant material.