First report of Cactophagus spinolae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) on two species of Stenocereus (Cactaceae) in Central Mexico

Abstract

The presence of Cactophagus spinolae in 2 Cactaceae not previously recorded is reported here: pitayasStenocereus pruinosus and S. stellatus in 2 regions of central Mexico. Damage on stems is produced by larvae ofthis weevil. In general, damage is exhibited in low frequency, bit it is statistically higher in S. stellatus, and in theTehuacán Valley region. When it attacks the main branch, the whole plant dies. This damage represents a seriousthreat to pitayas of central Mexico, because of their recognized ecological, cultural, and economical values. Despitethis weevil is considered a strong pest in many species of Opuntia, and there are few records of its presence in othercacti, it is possible that it has adopted new hosts. This stresses the necessity to continue recording its presence inother cacti in Mexico.