First Report of Exploitation of Coffee Beans by Black Twig Borer (Xylosandrus Compactus) and Tropical Nut Borer (Hypothenemus obscurus) (Coleoptera; Curculionidae: Scolytinae) in Hawaii

Abstract

The black twig borer, Xylosandrus compactus, is an ambrosia beetle that was reported in Hawaii in 1960 and attacks branches of more than 200 plant species, including coffee. This beetle was found for the first time boring coffee berries in the district of Hilo on the island of Hawaii. Beetles reached the endo- sperm and caused damage without making galleries or ovipositing. The tropical nut borer, Hypothenemus obscurus, is a pest of macadamia nuts that has been in Hawaii since 1988 and was recently found for the first time in Hawaii attacking coffee berries. Its entry hole was observed close to the blossom area or the side of the berry. Sometimes damage was caused near the endosperm but no galleries or eggs were found. Descriptions of the biology, behavior and management of these beetles are provided in this paper.