How to Identify Iridescent Beetles in New Jersey

The task of identifying a beetle spotted flying near your garden can be challenging if you are unaware of resources to help you unmask its identity. Some species of iridescent beetles, like the Japanese beetle that turned up in New Jersey during the early 1900s, pose a serious threat to agriculture because of their insatiable appetite for grass, plants and flowers in the area. To help you identify the iridescent beetle in question, use available resources online and in the local community.

Things You'll Need

  • Pen or pencil
  • Notebook
  • Digital camera
  • Camera phone (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Observe the beetle and write down your observations in a small notebook. Record the iridescent beetle's size, the type of plant it was near or eating, and the location where it was discovered. Having this data is particularly critical as you try to identify the beetle based on its characteristics and habits. If you have access to a digital camera or camera phone, snap a photo of the beetle.

    • 2

      Take the photograph with you to the library. Go to the reference section and ask a librarian to help you locate reference materials with pictures of native iridescent-colored beetles. Browse through pictures and read any literature near the image to help with identification.

    • 3

      Go to Insect Identification's website (www.insectidentification.org). Insects and spiders are identified based on physical characteristics and the location in which they were found. Use the drop-down menu selector, choose "None" for the beetle's color since iridescent includes a variety of colors, "Insect (6 Legs)" for the bug type and "New Jersey" for the location. Click "Search the Database" to view the images.

    • 4

      Contact a local New Jersey cooperative extension office and ask about the steps needed for insect identification. This resource can help positively identify the beetle to determine the appropriate pest control remedy for the bug if it starts to destroy your crops or plant life. You might be required to complete insect identification paperwork, submit a photo or an actual sample of the creature and pay any fees, if applicable.