Mango seed weevil

The mango seed weevil (Sternochetus mangiferae) is a destructive pest belonging to the order Coleoptera and the family Curculionidae. It is considered a significant quarantine pest in many countries because it infests the interior of mango fruit, making detection during the early stages of infestation extremely difficult.

This species is highly host-specific, primarily attacking various cultivars of Mangifera indica. The insect typically thrives in tropical and subtropical regions where mango trees are commercially cultivated, often leading to severe economic losses for growers and strict export restrictions.

The biology of the weevil is intrinsically linked to the mango fruit development cycle. Adult females deposit eggs on the skin of developing fruit. Once hatched, the larvae tunnel directly into the seed, where they undergo their entire larval and pupal development stages, effectively protected from external environmental factors.

The damage caused by Sternochetus mangiferae is significant. As the larvae feed on the seed and surrounding tissue, they create tunnels that become entry points for secondary pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi. This results in fruit rot, premature fruit drop, and total loss of commercial viability of the infected crop.

Effective management strategies require an integrated approach. Sanitation is crucial, involving the immediate removal and destruction of fallen fruits to break the life cycle. Chemical control involves the application of appropriate systemic insecticides during the fruiting phase, while strict orchard hygiene and quarantine measures are essential for preventing the spread to uninfested areas.