Green leaf weevil

Systematic position. The species belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Curculionidae. Polydrusus chrysomela is a small weevil known for its metallic green or golden-green appearance caused by specialized scales covering its elytra.

Host plants. This pest primarily targets fruit trees and various deciduous woody plants. Key hosts include apples, pears, cherries, and plums. It is frequently observed in home gardens as well as large commercial orchards, where it can feed on young foliage and tender shoots.

Biology and lifecycle. The lifecycle involves complete metamorphosis. The larvae overwinter in the soil, feeding on the root systems of grasses or woody plants. In the spring, they pupate within the soil. Adult weevils emerge during the budding phase of host trees, making them a significant threat to early vegetative growth.

Nature of damage and economic impact. The adults feed on buds, young leaves, and flower parts. Their feeding pattern involves creating irregular notches on the leaf margins, often referred to as skeletonizing. Heavy infestations can lead to partial or total defoliation of young trees and loss of fruit set, impacting the overall plant vigor.

Control measures. Integrated pest management (IPM) is recommended. Control tactics include:

• Mechanical soil cultivation in spring to disrupt pupation sites.
• Monitoring adult population density using visual inspection or shake-testing branches.
• Application of selective insecticides during the early vegetative stage if thresholds are exceeded.