Peach flatheaded borer

The peach flatheaded borer (Capnodis tenebrionis) is a destructive beetle belonging to the order Coleoptera and the family Buprestidae. It is considered one of the most critical threats to stone fruit orchards, particularly in arid and Mediterranean climatic conditions, where it causes significant economic losses.

This pest primarily attacks stone fruit trees such as apricots, peaches, plums, cherries, and almonds. The larvae cause the most severe damage by tunneling into the roots and root collar, disrupting the transport of water and nutrients, while the adult beetles feed on the bark, buds, and foliage of the trees.

The life cycle of the peach flatheaded borer is prolonged, typically spanning two to three years. Adults and larvae overwinter in the soil or within the tree's vascular system. In the spring, the beetles emerge to feed on green tissues before mating and laying eggs near the base of the tree trunk or directly in the soil.

Damage symptoms include the sudden wilting and dieback of branches or the entire tree. The presence of oval-shaped exit holes on the bark and sawdust-like frass around the root zone are clear indicators of an infestation. Infested young trees often die rapidly as the larvae sever the conductive tissues of the roots.

• Systematic removal and destruction of severely infested trees, including root systems.
• Application of insecticides targeted at adult beetles during their emergence phase.
• Maintaining tree vigor through proper irrigation and fertilization practices.
• Manual collection of adult beetles during early morning hours when they are less active.
• Maintaining clean orchard floors and practicing regular orchard sanitation to reduce pest habitats.