Evaluation of Seven Sampling Techniques for Wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae)

During 1995 and 1996, 7 sampling techniques were examined to develop a farmer or consultant-oriented system of sampling for wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae) to determine field populations. In an intensive sampling program, the soil core (absolute) sampling technique was compared with 6 relative sampling techniques [corn ( Zea mays L.)/wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) bait, melon ( Cucumis melo L.) bait, potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) bait, wire-mesh bait, pheromone trap, and pitfall trap]. In an extensive sampling program, the corn/wheat bait was examined for its utility in Conservation Reserve Program habitats. Each relative method was evaluated for its precision and accuracy in determining populations of Elateridae. The corn/wheat bait showed the highest level of precision and accuracy in the intensive sampling program. Acceptable levels of precision for the corn/wheat baits were also found in the extensive sampling program. In terms of cost, the corn/wheat bait was a cost-effective method for a sampling program. When examining relative net precision, the corn/wheat bait was the most efficient and effective sampling technique for determining wireworm populations in agricultural habitats and in conservation land returning to production.