Larvae and adults of some species of the genus Astaena may damage the roots and leaves of cultivated plants in the temperate and cold climates in Colombia. The third instar larva as well as male and female pupae of Astaena valida Burm. are described and illustrated. An identification key for the larvae of some genera of Colombian Melolonthinae is included. Larvae of A. valida live in disfunctional soils feeding on roots of yucca, grass, coffee, fique, tomato, pineapple, asparagous, maize and ornamental plants, with densities up to 36 grubs/m2. Adults have seasonal activity during October-November rainfall period, and are attracted to electric lights.
