White Beetles Are Eating My Tree

Weevils are members of the snout and bark beetle family (Curculionidae) known for their snout-like mouth parts. The little leaf notcher, Artipus floridanus, is a likely candidate for a white beetle feeding on your trees. This weevil feeds on approximately 150 different kinds of tree, but it prefers citrus.

At around 1/4 inch in length, the little leaf notcher lives up to its name. Adults are grayish-white to creamy-white with random patterns of dark spots on their wing covers. They are oval-shaped with an elongated head and broad snout. Their legs are grayish-white, and antennae are white to black.

According to a paper published by the Florida Division of Agriculture and Economic Services, not much is known about this pest's life cycle. It is known that larvae feed on the roots of host trees and emerge as adults to feed on foliage. All adults are female, and they lay approximately 1,220 eggs during their lifespan. There are three to four generations per year. Adults are flightless and move from tree to tree by crawling or by hitching a ride on an animal.

Generally, damage by little leaf notchers is not severe. Adults feed on the margins of tender young leaves. Occasionally, defoliation occurs, and young trees may need to be replaced. More significant damage is done by the larvae. They can girdle roots, causing the death of all or parts of the tree. Their injury sites also serve as entry points for fungal infections such as root rot.

According to the University of Florida, cultural practices alone can be effective in managing this pest. Keep trees healthy by fertilizing and irrigating regularly. Unhealthy trees are more susceptible to serious infestation. Banding trunks with burlap painted with adhesive, including products that contain tanglefoot, can help trap adults. Keep your trees free of weeds, as weeds can harbor larvae and adults.