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Rhodocyrtus cribripennis

Olive fruit curculio

Description

Olive fruit curculio, Rhodocyrtus (= Rhynchites) cribripennis is a beetle characterized by a reddish-brown body, with black mandibles and abdomen. The adult measures 5.5 to 6 mm, while the fully grown larva reaches about 7 mm. This species is found in the central and eastern Mediterranean regions and extends to the Crimea. It primarily targets the olive tree as hosts for larval development, though adults also feed on other plants in the Oleaceae family. The olive fruit curculio is semivoltine, meaning it has a two-year life cycle. During the first winter, it primarily overwinters as a fully grown larva in the soil, and in the second winter, it survives as an adult also buried in the soil. Overwintered adults emerge from the soil between late April and late May, flying to olive trees. They feed on tender leaves, apical shoots, and small young fruits for several weeks. The feeding damage can cause young fruits to drop prematurely, impacting the olive crop yield.

Symptom

Adult beetles feed on young leaves, shoots, and small fruits, creating visible feeding holes. These holes are typically round and can cause the damaged plant parts to drop prematurely. The feeding activity may leave scars or deformities on the fruits. Presence of brown beetles.

Tree Species: Olive

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle, Fruit / Seed, Branch

Pest significance: Harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes