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Black Vine Weevil and Strawberry Root Weevil

Black Vine Weevil: Biological and Mechanical Control


Oregon State University Extension
Black vine weevil larva infected with nematodes

University of Minnesota
Center for Urban Ecology and Sustainability

Black vine weevil adult infected with Beauveria bassiana.

BIOLOGICAL CONTROL:
Entomopathogenic nematodes, in particular Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, can be an effective control for the larval stage, but are most effective under ideal conditions for the nematode. This includes adequate soil moisture and temperatures of 60°F or higher in the top 5 inches of the soil. The best application time for nematodes is mid to late summer when young larvae are present.

Beauveria bassiana is an entomopathogenic fungus that is very effective in controlling black vine weevil in both the adult and larval stages. When Beauveria spores come in contact with an insect, they germinate and begin to grow through the cuticle of the insect where it then proliferates through the body, releases toxins and uses the insect's energy and nutrients  This eventually kills the insect. The fact that the insect does knot have to consume the fungus makes it different from many other pathogens. Beauveria is naturally occurring throughout the world, but is currently being manufactured for use in control of many different insects.


Carabid beetles have been shown to be an effective control of black vine weevil at low populations, however, these beetles are extremely susceptible to the chemical sprays currently used for black vine weevil.

MECHANICAL CONTROL:
Hand removal of adults before egg laying can be effective in small planting or for individual plants. Any plant suspected of infestation should be quarantined.

For potted plants, transplanting is an option limited damage has been done to the plant roots. The potting medium must not be reused and roots should be washed before replanting.

DISTRIBUTION DESCRIPTION HOST AND DAMAGE LIFE CYCLE
MONITORING AND CONTROL BIOLOGICAL AND MECHANICAL CONTROL STRAWBERRY ROOT WEEVIL RESOURCES
RELATED ARTICLES: BLACK VINE WEEVIL BIOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT, YEWS IN CONNECTICUT

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Last modified on March 06, 2013