Mango weevil

Eutyrhinus meditabundus, commonly identified as the mango weevil, is a beetle species belonging to the order Coleoptera and the family Curculionidae. This pest is a significant threat to tropical agriculture, specifically targeting mango trees across its native range, where it can cause substantial yield losses if not managed appropriately.

The primary host for this beetle is the mango tree (Mangifera indica). The weevil exhibits a preference for feeding on young branches and ripening fruit. By targeting the vascular tissues of the tree, it disrupts the movement of water and nutrients, which is particularly devastating for younger orchards or trees under stress from environmental factors.

The biological cycle involves the deposition of eggs directly into the plant tissues. Upon hatching, the larvae tunnel through the wood or fruit, creating intricate galleries that compromise the structural integrity of the plant. The larval stage is responsible for the majority of the internal damage, while the adult stage focuses on surface feeding and dispersal.

The damage caused by Eutyrhinus meditabundus includes necrotic lesions on the bark and unsightly entry/exit holes in the fruit. This infestation often serves as an entry point for secondary infections, such as fungi, which exacerbate the damage and lead to branch dieback or fruit rot, drastically reducing the marketable yield.

Effective management strategies require a combination of cultural and chemical practices:

• Implementing strict orchard sanitation by removing infested wood.
• Conducting regular field scouting to detect early signs of adult activity.
• Applying targeted insecticides during the peak periods of adult emergence.
• Promoting healthy tree growth through balanced fertilization to improve natural resilience.