Apple fruit weevil

The apple fruit weevil (Neocoenorrhinus pauxillus) is a destructive pest belonging to the Attelabidae (leaf-rolling weevils) family within the order Coleoptera. It is widely recognized as a serious threat to fruit production, primarily causing damage during the early growing season when it feeds on buds, leaves, and young fruitlets.

The species primarily targets domestic apple trees, but it is known to infest a variety of other fruit trees. In cases of significant outbreaks or lack of primary hosts, it may be found on various crops, including tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, potatoes, cabbage, fodder beet, and peas, though these are typically incidental hosts rather than preferred targets for reproduction.

The lifecycle begins with adult weevils overwintering in the soil at a depth of up to 15 cm. As spring temperatures rise above 10°C, the adults emerge to feed on budding trees. The female weevil lays eggs inside young fruit or leaf stalks, creating incisions that cause the plant tissues to wither, eventually leading to the shedding of affected fruitlets.

The primary symptom of an infestation is the presence of small, puncture-like holes on leaves and young fruit. Heavily infested trees may suffer from significant crop loss as the developing fruitlets drop prematurely. Additionally, the feeding activity can severely stress the tree, impacting overall vigor and the potential for next season's growth.

Integrated pest management is essential for controlling Neocoenorrhinus pauxillus. Chemical control involves the application of appropriate insecticides during the critical period from the "green tip" stage to early flowering. Cultural practices, such as maintaining clean orchard floors and regular cultivation of the soil around the base of the tree, are effective in disrupting the pupation stage and reducing the population of emerging adults.

• Applying insecticides before the flowering stage.
• Mechanically shaking beetles onto collection sheets in the early morning.
• Removing and disposing of dropped fruit to prevent larval development.