About SAPW
Palm species most at risk of damage by the SAPW include the Canary Island date palm and edible date palms, both of which are central crops in the $140 million date and ornamental palm industry in southern California. Fast detection and removal of SAPW infestations is key, because even moderately infested palms act as nurseries for weevil larvae and help spread damage.
Adult South American palm weevils can transmit a pathogen called red ring nematode (RRN), (Bursaphelenchus cocophilus). Palms affected by this pathogen include Canary Island date palm, date palm, and Cuban royal palm, but is most common in coconut and oil palms. The red ring nematode has been reported in many parts of Central and South America including Mexico. RRN has not yet been reported in the United States (as of 2000).
Source:
South American Palm Weevil Factsheet 1 of 5 (University of California Cooperative Extension, 2019)
Featured Creatures: Red Ring Nematode (University of Florida, 2015)
Identification
Learn how to identify SAPW adults, larvae, and symptoms of infestation. Resources to help you evaluate palm tree health and diagnose South American palm weevil infestation. Sampling information and reporting options are offered as well.
Distribution
See a map of discovered South American palm weevil infestation areas in Southern California.
Hosts
Find out what we know about the palms being attacked by SAPW.
Pest Impact
The impact of SAPW infestations affect Southern Californian palm tree populations and contribute to their death. Get more information about the scope of pest impact.
Management Options
Brief discussions and resources regarding regarding community preparedness, infested live trees, chemical control and other management options.
FAQs
We have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions concerning SAPW.
Overview
Photo Source: Mark Hoddle, University of California, Riverside