Giant cicada

Systematic position: Quesada gigas is classified within the order Hemiptera and the family Cicadidae. It is recognized as one of the largest and most destructive cicada species in its native distribution range across tropical America.

Host plants: The pest has a broad host range, posing a significant threat to commercial coffee plantations, citrus groves, avocado trees, and various ornamental or forestry species. It extracts phloem sap from the vascular system of these plants.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle is complex and long-term. Nymphs live underground for several years, feeding exclusively on root sap. Eventually, they emerge from the soil to undergo metamorphosis into the adult stage, which is when mating and egg-laying occur in the tree canopy.

Type of damage and economic impact: Damage is dual-fold: root feeding by nymphs leads to general tree decline and nutrient stress, while the oviposition process (egg-laying) by females causes mechanical injury to stems, often resulting in branch dieback and decreased fruit production.

Management and control: Integrated pest management (IPM) is crucial for controlling Quesada gigas. Effective strategies include:

• Monitoring adult activity using light traps to determine population peaks.
• Pruning and destroying branches containing egg masses to reduce the next generation.
• Applying targeted insecticide sprays when adults are most active.
• Maintaining optimal soil health and orchard sanitation to prevent heavy infestations.