Flat-faced longhorn beetle

Systematic position: The Xystrocera globosa, commonly known as the flat-faced longhorn beetle, belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Cerambycidae. It is a significant wood-boring pest known for its capacity to infest various woody plants, often spreading globally through infested wood products.

Host plants: This beetle is a highly polyphagous species. It attacks a wide range of host plants including various species of Acacia, Albizia, mango, coffee, and several citrus species. It is a particular concern in both commercial timber plantations and ornamental gardens.

Biology and life cycle: The insect's life cycle is completed entirely within the host tree. Females deposit eggs into bark crevices. Upon hatching, the larvae tunnel under the bark and into the sapwood, excavating complex galleries. They undergo pupation within these internal chambers before emerging as adult beetles.

Damage and economic impact: The primary damage is caused by the larval stage. By boring through the cambium and wood tissues, the larvae destroy the tree's vascular system, hindering the transport of water and nutrients. This damage leads to branch dieback, structural weakness, and eventually tree mortality.

Control measures: Managing this pest is challenging due to the cryptic nature of the larvae. Control strategies include:

• Sanitary pruning and removal of infested wood.
• Destruction of dead and dying trees to reduce breeding sites.
• Application of systemic insecticides during the adult emergence period.
• Improving tree vigor to increase natural resistance.