Stone fruit flat-headed borer

Systematic position: The species Capnodis parumstriata belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Buprestidae. These metallic wood-boring beetles are significant pests in regions characterized by Mediterranean or semi-arid climates, where they pose a persistent threat to woody vegetation.

Host plants: The pest primarily targets stone fruit trees. Typical host plants include apricot, peach, plum, cherry, and almond. Due to its host preference, it can cause severe economic losses in commercial stone fruit orchards if left unchecked.

Biology and life cycle: The lifecycle of Capnodis parumstriata consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Adult beetles emerge in late spring or summer and feed on the foliage and bark of tender shoots. Females typically oviposit in the soil or in bark crevices near the base of the tree trunk.

Damage and economic impact: The damage is primarily caused by the larvae, which bore through the bark to feed on the cambium and underlying xylem. These activities disrupt the vascular flow, causing chlorosis, branch dieback, and eventually the death of the entire tree if the infestation is heavy and long-lasting.

Protection measures: Effective management of the stone fruit flat-headed borer involves:

• Rigorous removal and destruction of infested tree parts.
• Maintaining optimal tree health through irrigation and balanced fertilization to increase pest resistance.
• Applying systemic or contact insecticides targeting adult beetles during their emergence window.
• Cultivating the soil around the base to disrupt the pupation or larval movement stages.