Flat-headed wood borer (Capnodis porosa)

Systematic position. Capnodis porosa, commonly known as a type of flat-headed wood borer, belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Buprestidae. These beetles are major pests in Mediterranean and continental climates, posing a severe threat to stone fruit orchards.

Crops damaged. This pest primarily targets stone fruit species, including apricot, peach, plum, and cherry trees. Almond trees are also frequently infested. The larvae are particularly destructive, as they target the root system and the lower part of the trunk, which is vital for the tree's survival.

Biology and lifecycle. The development cycle of Capnodis porosa can span one to two years depending on environmental conditions. Adult beetles emerge in the spring and feed on buds and young foliage. After mating, females lay eggs near the root collar. Upon hatching, larvae burrow into the roots, where they spend the majority of their developmental stage feeding on the phloem and cambium.

Character of damage and economic importance. The damage caused by larvae leads to the destruction of the cambium layer. This inhibits nutrient transport, causing the tree to weaken, show reduced growth, and eventually dry out. Large infestations can lead to the rapid death of entire orchard blocks, resulting in significant economic losses for fruit producers.

Control measures. Management is challenging due to the hidden larval stage. Strategies include:

• maintaining high tree vigor through proper irrigation and fertilization;
• cultivating the soil around the base of the trees to disturb egg-laying sites;
• spraying insecticides during the peak activity of adult beetles;
• removing and destroying severely infested trees to prevent the spread of the pest to healthy ones.