First record of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus in Curaçao, Netherlands Antilles
The presence of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae – EPPO A2 List) was recently noted for the first time on the Island of Curaçao, Netherlands Antilles. Several specimens were discovered in December 2008/January 2009. It is suspected that the pest was introduced with date palms imported from Egypt for ornamental purposes. This is also the first record of R. ferrugineus in the Caribbean.
The situation of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus in the Netherlands Antilles can be described as follows: Present, first found in December 2008 on the island of Curaçao.
Sources
Amigoe.com (2009) Beetle very harmful to date palms (2009-01-26) http://www.amigoe.com/artman/publish/artikel_51993.php
Personal communication with Prof. Aziz Ajlan, King Faisal University, Al-Hasa, Saudi Arabia (2009-01). http://www.redpalmweevil.com