Social media posts suggest that coconut rhinoceros beetle has established in the Western hemisphere. (9th October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jackson, Trevor A.; Rincón, Miguel N.; Villamizar, Laura F.; Paudel, Sulav
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied entomology. Volume 147:Number 1(2023)
• Page Start: 19
• Page End: 22
• Publication Date: 2022-10-09
• Subjects: Americas -- coconut rhinoceros beetle -- Mexico -- Oryctes rhinoceros -- Western hemisphere; Entomology -- Periodicals; Insect pests -- Periodicals; 595.7
• DOI: 10.1111/jen.13083
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0931-2048

Abstract

Abstract: The coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB: Oryctes rhinoceros L.) is one of the most damaging pests of coconut and oil palms in the Asia/Pacific region but has not been reported from the Western Hemisphere. Here, we report a possible establishment of CRB in Nayarit, Mexico, based on an analysis of social media reports and photographs indicating the presence of the beetle and the distinctive v‐shaped notches in palm fronds caused by the beetle feeding. CRB populations are destructive once established, therefore, urgent actions are required to contain the pest and prevent damage to coconut and oil palm in the Americas.