- Narrow distribution. In parts of Oceania. On sweetpotato, kangkong, and other Ipomoea species.
- Eggs on underside of leaves, grubs feed on roots, and after pupation, adults (6 mm) emerge. If many, swarms may occur.
- Holes made in the leaves as the beetles feed. Young plants slow to grow, but effect on yield unknown. •
- Cultural control: do not plant new crops next to old infested ones; apply mulches, manures, fertilizer, water for rapid early growth; handpick early in day; collect and burn trash after harvest.
- Chemical control: PDPs: ash (or ash+lime in water), derris, pyrethrum, or chilli; or synthetic pyrethroids.