Acorn weevil (Curculio dentipes)

The acorn weevil, scientifically known as Curculio dentipes, is a representative of the order Coleoptera and the family Curculionidae. This species is widely recognized in forestry as a pest that specifically targets various oak species, impacting both tree health and the regeneration of oak forests.

This insect primarily attacks trees of the genus Quercus. Adult weevils are known for their distinctively long rostrum, which they use not only for feeding on buds and foliage but also for drilling deep into the developing acorns to deposit their eggs safely within the fruit.

The biological cycle of Curculio dentipes is closely synchronized with the phenology of the host plant. The larvae develop entirely within the acorn, consuming the nutrient-rich tissues. Once fully developed, the larvae bore an exit hole, drop to the ground, and overwinter in the soil before pupating in the following spring.

The economic impact of this pest is primarily associated with the destruction of seeds, which is detrimental to nurseries and forestry seedling production. Heavy infestations lead to premature fruit drop and a significant reduction in the viability of the seed crop for natural or artificial reforestation.

Integrated pest management strategies are crucial for mitigation. Recommended measures include:

• Maintaining clean sanitary conditions in nurseries by removing infested acorns.
• Monitoring adult weevil populations during the spring emergence phase.
• Targeted application of insecticides on canopy foliage during the peak activity period.
• Utilizing soil cultivation methods to disrupt the overwintering pupal stages.