Unknown bug.

[noviceveggrower]

Hi,
Had a bit of a bazar conversation with my Uncle about a beetle problem they have on their allotment plot.
He describes it as looking like a small black seed. It curls up a bit like a woodlice but isn't one as its to small. He says if you flick them and then leave them for a minute or two it will uncurl and start scuttling off. He says they quite like potatoes.
Any ideas anyone?
I said I would ask on the forum to see anyone had any ideas. They have a problem with these bugs and club root so is getting a bit dis hearted.
Any ideas also what to use to get rid of the little beetle things?
Thanks

[Bigmallly]

It's a shame you didn't have a pic NVG as there are so many bugs.

[noviceveggrower]

I know all he kept muttering was small and black. I had the same conversation with him for about 20 minutes with him.
Did suggest about builders bags full of soil for the cub root area but didn't seem impressed with that idea.

[Bigmallly]

Some folks get set in their ways when it comes to growing.............they are reluctant to change even if they are having problems..........

[noviceveggrower]

Some folks get set in their ways when it comes to growing.............they are reluctant to change even if they are having problems..........

My mom is like that. Always goes on at me about my granddad and how he wouldn't of grown things that way, especially if I have a problem with something.
And if I tell her I don't use chemicals to treat something then well I must be mad.

[Bigmallly]

I suppose it's all about balancing the old ways with the new....................but at the end of the day, doing what works for you.

[veggiechicken]

Could it be a Pill beetle? Pill Beetle - Byrrhus pilula | NatureSpot

[marchogaeth]

I was going to ask if they are definitely a problem or if they just happen to be found around already damaged plants/roots?

[noviceveggrower]

I was going to ask if they are definitely a problem or if they just happen to be found around already damaged plants/roots?

I think a bit of both my uncle didn't really say. He was mainly obsessed about flicking them across the table and watching them pop into life. Just thought if I could find out what they are it might help my Aunty get rid of them.

[LisbethLarose]

I hope I'm not too late

Hey!

I've read your question and since I've had similar problems with bugs in my garden, I couldn't help but try to help you find a solution to identify and "beat" this bug issue. Perhaps I'm at least 20 days late to respond but in case you haven't found out what to do I hope I'm helpful.

Yes, a picture would be nice but since we haven't got any at the moment I decided to see what Google can show us. I found these 2 decent sources about beetle species in the UK:

1. Beetles 1
2. Beetles 2

If you are going to use Internet as a source of information about how to beat these bugs I suggest you find the right type of pest you are dealing with and further search for solutions.

If you manage to identify the beetle species please tell us and we might try to help you!

Good Luck.