Influence of Plant Direction, Layer, and Spacing on the Infestation Levels of Anthonomus eugenii (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in Open Jalapenõ Pepper Fields in North Florida

Abstract

Pepper weevil, Anthonomus eugenii Cano (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), is a most serious pest of peppers in North Florida. To analyze A. eugenii infestation levels on jalapenõ peppers as a reference for effectively controlling pepper weevil, we investigated infestation and population dynamics of A. eugenii, and influence of plant direction, layer, and spacing in open fields in North Florida. The results showed that adult pepper weevil infestation started in late Apr when plants started to produce buds and flowers. Three infestation peaks were recorded on 9 Jun, 24 Jul, and 11 Sep. The second peak showed the highest infestation level (14.6 ± 2.7 infested fruits per plant). The density curve of A. eugenii larvae within fruits lagged about 2 to 4 wk behind the curve of infestation level in the field. Three peaks occurred on 10 Jul, 21 Aug, and 25 Sep. Fruits on the eastern part and top third of pepper plants had the lowest infestation levels, as did plants spaced 40 cm apart. This study, focusing on the preferred locations of A. eugenii, will help improve sampling technique and pest management applications, and thus enhance the effectiveness of pesticide application, and ultimately reduce ecological damage.