Temporal and spatial factors influencing Systena frontalis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) behavior in Virginia nurseries.

This article focuses on the phenology, behavior, and management challenges of *Systena frontalis* (F.), commonly known as the red-headed flea beetle, a significant pest affecting ornamental plant production in eastern Virginia nurseries. Monitoring conducted in 2021 and 2022 at commercial nurseries revealed up to three generations per year, with adult population peaks in June, late July, and late August to early September, and adults being most active between 1100 and 1500 hours. The study found that phenylethyl alcohol (PEA), tested as a potential adult attractant lure, was ineffective under nursery conditions. Additionally, adult feeding caused defoliation evenly across hydrangea plant canopies, increasing linearly with adult density, suggesting that timing scouting and insecticide applications to coincide with adult activity peaks could improve pest management and reduce insecticide use.