Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook

Potato, Irish-Garden symphylan

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Scutigerella immaculata

Pest description and crop damage The garden symphylan (Myriapoda) is a small, white, centipede-like animal in the soil. This arthropod is a pest of potatoes in isolated pockets in the PNW, especially west of the Cascade Mountains. Damage consists of scars on the tuber skin, which are undesirable in the marketplace. Because damage from symphylans and flea beetles is very similar, it is important to be sure that symphylans are present prior to any treatments aimed at their control. The symphylan is an important pest in several vegetable and seed crops west of the Cascade.

See:

Biology and Control of the Garden Symphylan

Management-chemical control: HOME USE

  • azadirachtin (as a mix with pyrethrins-Some formulations are OMRI-listed for organic use.
  • cyfluthrin
  • pyrethrins-Some formulations are OMRI-listed for organic use.

Management-chemical control: COMMERCIAL USE

See:

Pesticide Tables for Potato Pests

Kaur, N. (Ed.). 2024 Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook.
© Oregon State University.

Use pesticides safely!

  • Wear protective clothing and safety devices as recommended on the label. Bathe or shower after each use.
  • Read the pesticide label—even if you’ve used the pesticide before. Follow closely the instructions on the label (and any other directions you have).
  • Be cautious when you apply pesticides. Know your legal responsibility as a pesticide applicator. You may be liable for injury or damage resulting from pesticide use.

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