Stenoma decora

Systematic position. Stenoma decora is a moth species belonging to the order Lepidoptera and the family Depressariidae. This insect is recognized as a significant agricultural pest in tropical and subtropical regions, where it specializes in attacking fruit-bearing trees, specifically affecting the quality and quantity of commercial harvests.

Host plants. The primary host for this species is the mango tree (Mangifera indica), a member of the Anacardiaceae family. Due to its preference for mango, the pest is a major concern for mango producers in the Americas, causing significant damage in orchards where the insect population is not actively managed.

Biology and life cycle. The life cycle of Stenoma decora follows a complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The adult moths are nocturnal and active during the night. Females lay eggs on fruit surfaces. Upon hatching, the larvae immediately begin feeding, boring into the fruit to consume the pulp, which provides them with both nutrition and protection from natural enemies and environmental stressors.

Damage and harmfulness. The larvae are responsible for the primary damage. By tunneling through the fruit, they create galleries that lead to the internal decay of the mango. This not only destroys the edible part of the fruit but also facilitates secondary infections by pathogens, leading to fruit drop, rotting, and making the remaining fruit completely unmarketable.

Control measures. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is essential for controlling Stenoma decora. Cultural practices, such as the prompt removal and destruction of infested fruits and fallen debris, are critical to interrupt the life cycle. In severe cases, chemical control using targeted insecticides is applied, ideally timed with the adult flight peak to prevent oviposition and minimize the larvae's ability to enter the fruit.

• Regular orchard scouting and monitoring.
• Sanitation and removal of fallen fruit.
• Deployment of pheromone traps for detection.
• Application of selective insecticides.