Integrated Pest Management Guide

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CRANE FLIES (leatherjackets)

MARSH CRANE FLY, Tipula oleracea (L.)

EUROPEAN CRANE FLY, Tipula paludosa Meigen

Pest Status: Adults (craneflies) are seen flying in cranberry beds; larvae (leatherjackets) are found in roots of grasses and sedges in cranberry beds. At this time, these insects are considered potential pests of cranberry.

Life cycle and feeding habits: European crane fly adults emerge, mate and lay eggs in late August through September. Eggs hatch during the fall into larvae that begin feeding at the roots and crowns of turf. Larvae overwinter and continue to feed in spring. In about mid-May, depending on weather, they stop feeding and pupate, staying underground in a non-feeding stage until they wiggle to the surface and emerge as adults in August and September.

Marsh crane flies emerge in April as well as in the fall. Following the emergence of marsh crane flies, egg-laying and larval development occur. Little is known about the life history of the marsh crane fly. Larvae of both species have a tough, grey/brown skin and a cylindrical body tapered at both ends, with no apparent head or legs.

In spring (June), larvae of the European crane fly measure about 13 -20 mm (9/16 - 7/8 inch), while marsh crane fly larvae are smaller, about 5 - 10 mm (1/4 - 1/2 inch). Larvae chew and feed on the roots and crowns of grasses. In addition to grasses, European crane fly larvae are known to feed on strawberries, flowers and vegetable crops; marsh crane fly larvae may feed on conifer seedlings.

Monitoring: Marsh craneflies may be seen flying over the vines in spring, early summer, and fall whereas European crane flies are only seen in late summer or fall. If present in cranberry beds, larvae are usually found in the roots of grasses and sedges. Look for larvae by checking soil around and under roots and crowns of cranberry plants. Watch for damage in new fields shortly after planting, especially if a previous weedy piece of land or grassland was used to plant the cranberry vines. Young vines in grassy fields may be at risk of damage, especially if grasses are killed or removed.

Control: It may be advisable to kill larvae by flooding before controlling grasses.


European crane fly larva	European crane fly