Development of the Orchid Weevil, Orchidophilus aterrimus (Waterhouse)

Abstract

Orchidophilus aterrimus (Waterhouse) is a weevil pest of Vanda, Dendrobium, Phalaenopsis, and other orchids in Hawaii. Development of all immature stages usually occurred within orchid pseudobulbs. Eggs were deposited into cavities made by adult feeding and hatched in an average of 11.3 days. Larval development was completed in approximately 117 days. Larvae pupated in cells within the gallery. The pupal stadium averaged 15.9 days. The entire life cycle required an average of 144 days. A 47 day preoviposition period was observed. Females laid an average of 2.4 eggs per week during their lifespan. Feeding and oviposition occurred primarily during daylight hours.