Asias halodendri Pallas, commonly known as the red-stranded longhorn beetle, is a species of beetle belonging to the order Coleoptera and the family Cerambycidae. It is primarily found in the northeastern, northern, eastern, and southern regions of China. This pest mainly infests fruit trees such as peaches, apples, and pears, causing significant damage to orchards.
The main threat comes from the larvae, which feed on the bark and xylem of branches. Infestations can weaken the tree's overall health, leading to stunted growth and reduced fruit yield. In severe cases, entire branches may die and become hollow, leaving only the outer bark intact.
Adult beetles are approximately 17 mm in length, with a slender, black body. A striking feature is the bright red oval spot at the base of their hardened wing covers (elytra), with a tapering red pattern extending along the outer edge. These colors make them easily identifiable in the field.
The larvae are milky white and grow to about 22 mm in length. The front part of their thoracic plate shows partial yellow-brown pigmentation, divided into four distinct sections. This characteristic helps in distinguishing them from other similar species.
This beetle completes one life cycle per year. The larvae overwinter inside the affected branches and resume feeding in early spring, typically around March. They bore into the xylem beneath the bark, creating tunnels and pushing out frass (insect excrement) through small holes. Adults emerge in mid to late April and are active during the day, often feeding on nectar from flowers like jujube blossoms. Female beetles lay eggs in weakened or damaged branches, and after hatching, the larvae tunnel between the phloem and xylem before moving deeper into the wood.
To manage this pest, several control methods can be employed. First, it is crucial to promptly remove and burn dead or infested branches to eliminate breeding sites. Additionally, manually capturing adult beetles during their active period can help reduce population levels. These practices, combined with regular monitoring, can significantly minimize the impact of Asias halodendri on fruit crops.
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