Distribution
Since its discovery, this invasive weevil has heavily infested the Bonita and Chula Vista areas of South San Diego and has been found infesting palms in varying degrees throughout San Diego County. As of 2019, SAPW has been found in traps as far north as San Marcos. The exact area of infestation in San Diego County is not known.
Adult SAPW have proven to be strong fliers and may have the ability to disperse naturally into date production areas from infested locations. In the lab, field-captured male and female weevils can fly on average 25 miles or more a day if they choose to do so (Hoddle et al. 2020). It is unknown if weevils undertake such long-distance flights in nature. It is possible that long-distance flights could occur throughout areas lacking in suitable hosts to attack. It has been shown that SAPW fly almost exclusively during the day. Human activity has historically aided in the spread of invasive pests and pathogens in California. Movement of live ornamental palms out of infested areas should be avoided to reduce the chances of unintended weevil introductions into new areas.
A concern is that SAPW may invade the Coachella Valley and once established it could become a significant management issue for growers of edible dates, an industry with an annual value of around $100 million (US).
We are relying on community scientists and concerned citizens to report palms that are suspected of having been killed by SAPW. To report an infested palm or one killed by SAPW, an online form can be completed and submitted. Click here to report an infested palm.
Distribution of South American Palm Weevil in California
