Granulated weevil

The Coelosternus granicollis is a species of beetle belonging to the order Coleoptera and the family Curculionidae (weevils). This insect poses a significant threat to agricultural sectors in tropical regions where specific tree crops are cultivated.

The primary host plant for this pest is the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao). Both the larvae and adults primarily damage the stems and branches of the trees, leading to the disruption of sap flow and the overall weakening of the plant's physiological development.

The biology of this weevil is intimately linked to the bark and inner wood of the host tree. Females deposit eggs into cracks or specially bored holes in the bark. Upon hatching, the larvae tunnel into the tissues, feeding on the cambium and wood, which subsequently creates entry points for fungal and bacterial secondary infections.

Damage symptoms include the wilting of young shoots, structural deformation of branches, and premature leaf drop. In cases of high population density on a plantation, the pest can cause severe yield losses or even the death of young saplings due to the destruction of the plant's vascular system.

Integrated pest management strategies include:

• Routine sanitary pruning and destruction of infested tree branches.
• Application of systemic insecticides during peak adult activity.
• Encouraging natural biological control agents within the agroecosystem.
• Maintaining optimal agronomic practices to strengthen plant health and resistance.