Conotrachelus albocinereus

Systematic position: the insect belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Curculionidae (weevils). This species is recognized for its specialized feeding habits that often result in significant agricultural losses within its native habitat range.

Affected crops: the primary hosts include various species of the Rosaceae family. The pest shows a strong preference for fruit-bearing trees, where it causes damage to both reproductive organs and vegetative tissues, leading to direct losses in fruit production.

Biology and life cycle: the life cycle of Conotrachelus albocinereus is synchronized with the host plant's phenology. Adults overwinter in the soil or under debris. During the spring, they emerge to feed on buds and new leaves before mating and depositing eggs directly into the fruit or developing ovaries.

Damage patterns and economic impact: larvae tunnel through the internal tissues of the fruit, causing premature fruit drop and significant reduction in fruit quality. Adults cause further harm by creating puncture wounds on the fruit surface and feeding on foliage, which stresses the host plant and makes it vulnerable to secondary infections.

Protection measures: integrated pest management is essential for controlling this beetle. Key practices include the removal and destruction of infested fallen fruit, as well as soil cultivation under tree canopies to disrupt the life cycle of pupating larvae. Chemical control should be timed to coincide with the post-emergence activity of adults before significant egg-laying occurs.

• Continuous field monitoring for adult presence
• Implementation of sticky bands on tree trunks
• Sanitary pruning of infested plant parts
• Application of selective insecticides during high infestation risk