The underground larval stages of a number of cockchafers or scarab beetles (family Scarabaeidae) feed on humus and plant roots in natural and improved pastures on the northern tablelands. These scarabs, or white curl grubs, sometimes occur in high population densities and may then cause serious localised damage to pastures.

The infested patches may vary in extent from a few square metres to several hectares. At times, the grubs also damage lawns, golf courses, bowling greens and playing fields and severely attack cultivated crops planted in land recently under pasture. This Primefact examines:

• life cycles
• damage
• population regulation
• controlling scarab grubs.