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Palm Inflorescence Weevil
Signs of Infestation
The Palm Inflorescence Weevil attacks the inflorescences and floral stalks before and after spathe opening, feeding voraciously on flowers and recently set fruits, causing them to drop. Adult weevils are observed emerging from the base of the inflorescence and aggressively attacking flowers on the floral stalks.
Fruits at different developmental stages are attacked, leading to the shedding of recently set fruits.
The insect causes notches and burrows beneath the bases of flowers or recently set fruits, resulting in fruit drop.
Small holes and burrows appear beneath the spathe cover.
Grooves and excreta are observed on the spathe cover, with grooves and tunnels also visible on the fruit stalk and floral stalks, along with feeding traces on flowers and fruits.
Floral stalks appear completely devoid of flowers, and thus fruits, in cases of severe infestation.
Sources of Spread and Transmission
Use of infested (male) inflorescences.
Direct transmission through the flight of adult insects from one place to another.
Movement of infested inflorescences or palms from one farm to another.
Resting pupae beneath frond bases and fibers surrounding the inflorescence.
Prevention and Control Mechanism
Regular inspection of palm trees and monitoring for the first signs of infestation to ensure timely and effective control.
Orchard sanitation, including proper pruning, removal of frond bases, disposal of old inflorescences, weed control, and collection and destruction of infested and fallen fruits.
Planting at suitable spacing to avoid overcrowding of palms.
Regulating irrigation and ensuring balanced fertilization to help reduce Palm Inflorescence Weevil infestation.