Apple fruit weevil

Systematic position: The apple fruit weevil (Latin: Coenorrhinus pauxillus) is a member of the Attelabidae family within the Coleoptera order. This small beetle is recognized as a significant pest, particularly in regions with intensive pome and stone fruit cultivation.

Host plants: The pest primarily infests pome fruits such as apples, pears, and quinces, as well as stone fruits like plums, cherries, and apricots. It causes localized damage to both nursery plants and mature, fruit-bearing trees throughout the growing season.

Biology and life cycle: Adult weevils overwinter in the soil at varying depths. Upon the arrival of spring, they emerge to feed on developing buds. Mating occurs shortly after, followed by the female laying eggs in petioles or young shoots, which she then partially severs to induce wilting, creating a suitable microenvironment for the developing larvae.

Damage and severity: Early-season feeding often destroys fruit buds, preventing flowering and reducing potential yield. Later in the season, larval development inside leaves leads to premature leaf drop and skeletonization of foliage. Repeated infestations can lead to tree decline, stunted growth, and a significant reduction in overall tree vigor.

Protection measures:

• Cultivating soil in the orchard during autumn to expose and destroy overwintering adults.
• Sanitation practices, such as raking and destroying fallen leaves to break the pest cycle.
• Application of targeted insecticides during the bud burst stage and post-flowering period.
• Manual removal by shaking branches onto collection sheets during early morning hours when beetles are less active.