Diaprepes - What You Don't Want in Your Orchard

On a recent trip, we saw Diaprepes Root Weevil damage on avocado. It was feeding on the leaves, tattering them.  The problem with this pest is that it also feeds on the roots, weakening the tree and opening it up to disease, such as Phytophthora.  This adult beast about measures about ¾ inch long and the larvae are bigger, about an inch long.  They are hard to kill when they are in the ground. They have a host range of 270 plant species including citrus, strawberry, papaya and lots of vegetables species.  It's already found in parts of LA, Orange and San Diego Counties.  If you see it, call the local Ag Commissioner. https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/Plant/pdep/target_pest_disease_profiles/Diaprepes_PestProfile.html

Treatment options are listed in the IPM Guidelines

https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/Plant/pdep/target_pest_disease_profiles/Diaprepes_PestProfile.html

You don't want this in your orchard.

Diaprepes feeding on avocado (Tim Spann)

Damage to citrus root system.