Ptosima

Systematic position
The genus Ptosima belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Buprestidae (jewel beetles). These beetles are characterized by a highly specialized larval stage that feeds exclusively on wood and plant tissues beneath the bark, often leading to severe structural damage to the host plant.

Host plants
This pest primarily attacks trees within the Rosaceae family. In agricultural and orchard environments, it is most frequently encountered on stone fruit species, including apricot, peach, plum, and almond. It can also colonize ornamental trees belonging to the same botanical group, causing significant aesthetic and physiological damage.

Biology and life cycle
The life cycle of Ptosima is closely synchronized with the host tree's physiology. Adult beetles are typically active during late spring and summer, feeding on foliage. After mating, females deposit eggs into crevices in the bark. Upon hatching, larvae bore into the inner bark and cambium, spending their entire developmental phase feeding inside the trunk or larger branches.

Damage and economic impact
The damage is primarily caused by larvae, whose boring activity disrupts the xylem and phloem vessels. This interruption of nutrient and water flow leads to canopy dieback, branch necrosis, and, in severe cases, the death of the tree. Furthermore, open wounds created by the larvae often facilitate the entry of secondary pathogens, such as fungi and bacteria.

Protection measures
Effective management of Ptosima involves several strategies:

• Regular removal and burning of infested branches to reduce local populations.
• Maintaining tree vigor through proper irrigation and fertilization practices.
• Application of systemic insecticides during the peak flight of adult beetles to prevent egg laying.
• Protecting wounds and pruning cuts with suitable horticultural sealants.
• Monitoring orchard health to identify early symptoms of infestation, such as sap bleeding or bark cracking.