Inventory and monitoring techniques for black vine weevil and related weevil species in tree nurseries

General introduction

In Flemish ornamental horticulture, in ordinary gardens, in public green areas, and on strawberry and small fruit companies, more and more damage is being suffered because of the weevil Otiorhynchus sulcatus (family Curculionidae) and related weevil species. To date, there is still no optimal control method available. That is why problems with this beetle and other snout beetles have been dragging on for years. The main objective of SURVEY SNUITKEVERS is the inventory and monitoring of the vine weevil and related plant harmful weevils in the ornamental plant and tree nursery to map the diversity, the monitoring technique and the phenology of the common beetles in order to determine the best possible timing of control as well as an integrated control strategy.

Research approach

We make an inventory of the most dominant weevils in floriculture in Flanders. We are looking for ways to identify them morphologically. We determine the most suitable monitoring technique: is it pitfall traps, soil traps with attractant, attractive host plants (attractants), bottom adhesive strips, easily monitored shelters or a visual inspection of the crop? We map in detail the life cycle and phenology of the dominant weevils. We process the results in communication and in useful applications to the sector, including through the Pest Alert System.

Relevance/Valorisation

Based on the results obtained, we can conclude that O. sulcatus is still the most important weevil in tree nurseries and the cause of most damage. The knowledge gained about the time of occurrence of the different stages and the emergence periods can be immediately included in the Pest Alert System and thus contributes to a better integrated control strategy for this group of weevils, which enables the growers/growers to control these pest insects in an efficient and sustainable way, with an increased operational reliability as a result.

Funding provider(s)
Fonds Landbouw en Visserij