Influence of cropping systems on the number of wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae) collected in baits in Missouri cornfields

In 1987 and 1988, 44 Missouri cornfields were sampled with wireworm (Coleoptera: Elateridae) baits. Wireworms were present in 25 percent of the sampled fields. White grubs were also attracted to the baits and were found in 13.6 percent of the fields. Four Melanotus species and Aeolus mellillus Say were collected. Wireworms were most common in fields with a history of sod, and significantly more wireworms were found in fields with a history of wireworm damage. Tillage practices did not appear to be closely related to potential economic infestations.