Maggot Damage to Onion Transplants

Larvae belonging to the genus Delia are seed-feeding pests of many crops. The two major species wreaking havoc in field and vegetable crops include the Onion Maggot (Delia antiqua) and the Seed Corn Maggot (Delia platura). Both maggot species will feed on seedlings and either kill the plant before it can successfully mature or injure the plant, thus giving entry to soil pathogens like bacterial rots. The accompanying video describes damage to onion transplants by the Seed Corn Maggot. Species identification in this situation is not crucial. Both pest species can be managed using the cultural tactics recommended in the video (ex. delayed planting, controlling organic matter residues). Visit "www.extension.entm.purdue.edu" to learn more.
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