ARS | Publication request: UPDATE ON RESEARCH TOWARD MICROBIAL CONTROL OF THE PECAN WEEVIL

Submitted to: Southeastern Pecan Growers Meeting Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: February 20, 2003
Publication Date: March 7, 2003
Citation: Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Cottrell, T.E., Gardner, W., Reilly, C.C., Hotchkiss, M.W., Wood, B.W. 2003. Update on research toward microbial control of the pecan weevil. Southeastern Pecan Growers Meeting Proceedings. 96:103-108

Interpretive Summary: The pecan weevil is a devastating pest of pecans in the southeastern U.S. as well as parts of Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Currently chemical insecticides control the weevil, but due to environmental and regulatory concerns, alternative methods must be sought. The potential of insect-killing nematodes (small round worms) and fungi to suppress the weevil was investigated. The nematodes and fungi are not harmful to humans or the environment. Research thus far indicates promise for these biological control methods, but improved strains and field persistence will be required before satisfactory levels of pecan weevil suppression can be achieved. Research is underway to address these issues.

Technical Abstract: The pecan weevil, Curculio caryae, is a devastating pest of pecans in the southeastern U.S. as well as parts of Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Currently chemical insecticides control the weevil, but due to environmental and regulatory concerns, alternative methods must be sought. The potential of entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi to suppress the weevil was investigated. Research thus far indicates promise for these biological control methods, but improved strains and field persistence will be required before satisfactory levels of pecan weevil suppression can be achieved. Research is underway to address these issues.