Soil-Dwelling "Worms" Under Angel Trumpet: Crane Fly Larvae

Larva in soil

Holes in Angel Trumpet leaves. Found legless, black-headed "worms" 2 inches down in soil, moving like caterpillars, with rear "whiskers." Not eating marigolds.

Identification: Crane Fly Larvae (Leatherjackets)

• Adults = giant mosquito-like flies (harmless).
• Larvae = cylindrical, legless, tough skin, rear spiracles look like "whiskers."
• Feed on grass roots in damp soil. Not leaf eaters.
• Some species (European crane fly) damage turf.

Not Your Leaf Damage

Crane fly larvae don't climb plants or eat leaves. Your Angel Trumpet damage is likely from caterpillars, beetles, or slugs.

Action

• No control needed for crane fly larvae unless lawn shows damage.
• Inspect Angel Trumpet at night for caterpillars; treat with Bt if found.
• Marigolds: check for slugs (night) or spider mites (undersides).

Different pests, different solutions.