ARS | Publication request: Ecology and detection of the red palm weevil, Rrhynchophorus Fferrugineus (Ccoleoptera: curculionidae), and related weevils for the protection of palm tree species in the United States

Submitted to: Symposium Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: November 18, 2012
Publication Date: January 16, 2013
Citation: Herrick, N.J., Mankin, R.W., Dosunmu, O.G., Kairo, M.T. 2013. Ecology and detection of the red palm weevil, Rrhynchophorus Fferrugineus (Ccoleoptera: curculionidae), and related weevils for the protection of palm tree species in the United States. French Plant Protection Association Symposium Proceedings of Palm Pest Mediterranean Conference. pp.269-283.

Technical Abstract: The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, native to Asia, the neotropical R. palmarum, and the subneotropical R. cruentatus are international threats to palm industries. We evaluated the status of these species on Aruba over concerns that the former two species may cause significant damage if they enter the United States. Yearly trap captures of RPW remained the same from 17-Sep-2009 to 12-Aug-2010 when compared with trap captures made from 8-Sep-2011 to 9-Aug-2012. Trapping indicated that R. cruentatus and R. palmarum are not present on Aruba. Acoustical technology was capable of detecting infestations of early instar RPW. Comparisons of movement and feeding impulses produced by RPW and R. cruentatus were made. Aerial imagery may be useful for development of trapping protocols; however, an eradication program will only be feasible if phytosanitary laws are implemented on Aruba and adjacent islands.