Mango seed weevil

Systematic position: Sternochetus olivieri belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Curculionidae. It is a highly specialized pest that primarily targets mango trees, causing significant agricultural challenges in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

Host plants and damage: The primary host is the mango tree (Mangifera indica). The pest is notorious for infesting the fruit; the larvae tunnel through the pulp to reach the seed, consuming the kernel inside. This damage often goes unnoticed until the fruit is opened, leading to severe economic losses and quality degradation.

Biology and life cycle: The life cycle is strictly synchronized with the fruiting phenology of the mango tree. The female lays eggs on the surface of developing fruits. Upon hatching, the larvae burrow into the seed to feed and pupate. Because the entire developmental phase occurs inside the fruit, the insect is protected from many traditional topical pesticide applications.

Economic impact: The mango seed weevil poses a major threat to international trade. Due to its hidden nature, infested fruits may pass visual inspection, yet they are structurally compromised and susceptible to secondary decay. This leads to high rejection rates in global markets and significant yield reductions for growers.

Control measures: Integrated pest management (IPM) is essential for effective control:

• Strict sanitation practices, including the removal and destruction of all fallen and infested fruits.
• Regular pruning to improve orchard hygiene and spray penetration.
• Targeted insecticide applications during the early fruiting stage to prevent initial egg-laying.
• Stringent quarantine regulations for the movement of fruit between different geographical areas.