Q.ID soft bodied root chewing insect
Can you help me identify a pest that causes damage very similar to root maggots, but does not resemble them? The damage is primarily in beds of Aconitum. Stems weaken and yellow. Then by tugging very lightly on the stem, the whole stem with the tuber-like base comes up showing that the fine roots are gone. Tuber has lesions and a small number of soft-bodied, pale, many legged insects (?). They are about the same length as a root maggot but somewhat slimier. Picture a fast moving, elongated mealy bug. Thanks for your help!
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Sounds like symphylans. This article will have more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/garden-symphylan-small-white-worm-like-bugs-in-the-soil.htm