About Homalinotus coriaceus L.Gyllenhal, 1836
This species, commonly called the black coconut bunch weevil, has the scientific name Homalinotus coriaceus L.Gyllenhal, 1836. Adult black coconut bunch weevils are solid black, and measure 25 to 30 millimetres (0.98 to 1.18 inches) in length, with a rostrum that is approximately 8 millimetres (0.31 inches) long. Mature larvae of this species are white and curved, and are larger than adult beetles at 40 to 50 millimetres (1.6 to 2.0 inches) in length, with a rust-colored head. Eggs laid on floral peduncles are white, smooth, and elongated. This species shows little to no sexual dimorphism; females are slightly larger than males, and have two subtle indentations on the pronotum. Due to the damage H. coriaceus causes to coconut trees, it is classified as a major pest in Brazil. Larvae tunnel into the coconut tree’s peduncles to feed on sap, while adults often damage the tree’s flower and fruit tissues. Because both life stages of H. coriaceus contribute to the death of infested coconut trees, this pest is estimated to have reduced coconut production in Brazil by 50%.
