Expert Arborists in Lincoln, NE

If there are numerous orange beetles with black markings on a plant, these insects are not harmful to plants. They are beneficial insects and the indiscriminate use of an insecticide to control them is unnecessary. Using pesticides when not needed has environmental impacts and can lead to resistance in insect pests. The orangish beetles with black markings are soldier beetles. The adult and larvae are both beneficial. Adult soldier beetles feed on pollen and nectar which does not harm plants but does aid pollination. Soldier beetle larvae are soil predators and can eat large numbers of grasshopper eggs amongst other pests. Soldier beetles often occur in large numbers which may cause concern for plant owners but these beetles do not damage plants. It is always important to positively identify an insect, weed disease, or true cause of plant damage prior to applying any type of pesticide.