So... What are Asparagus Beetles?
Two species of the Asparagus Beetle exist; the Common Asparagus Beetle & the Spotted Asparagus Beetle. Both species eat only asparagus and can be quite destructive to the young plantings in the Spring.
With a blue-black body of approximately 1/4" in length, the Common Asparagus Beetle has a colorful appearance. Green tipped antennae, a reddish thorax, and three yellow patches or spots on both sides of its wings are additional unique features. The Spotted Asparagus Beetle is a little larger and has an orange-red body with six black spots on each of its wings. It has black eyes and black antennae. Reproduction Patterns of Asparagus Beetles
After emerging from "overwintering," the beetles begin to eat the young shoots and tips of the asparagus plant. This usually occurs somewhere around early to mid-April, depending on the region's climate. Once they have nourished their bodies, they will begin the process of laying eggs. 
In about 3-8 days, the eggs will hatch and the larvae will emerge. They start to eat the tips of the tender asparagus plantings. Upon maturation in about two weeks, the larvae will descend to the soil and build cocoons where they will undergo pupation in about a week or so. The adults then emerge from these chambers and then the life cycle process starts all over again, with the new adults feeding on the asparagus plants and shortly thereafter, laying their eggs. There can be anywhere from 2-5 generations in one year, depending on regional climates and temperatures.
There are a few differences between the reproduction cycle of the two species. First, the spotted asparagus beetles usually emerge from overwintering about 7 days later than the common asparagus beetles. Second, instead of laying their eggs in young shoots, the spotted variety waits until the plants begin flowering before laying their eggs. They typically lay their eggs in plants containing berries so the larvae will have food after leaving their eggs. In addition, their larvae are darker in color than the larvae of the common asparagus beetle. Asparagus Beetle's Habitat Both species are found throughout North America, but the spotted asparagus beetle inhabits only areas east of the Mississippi River. During the winter, these beetles live under old plants and similar debris that provide shelter from the cold. Images courtesy of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State Univerity
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