Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera : Curculionidae) is nowadays considered the
biggest threat to palm trees worldwide. Due to the current trend towards the use of environmentallyfriendly
control measures, increasing interest is being shown in trapping as a way of dealing with this
pest. The present study assessed the influence of starvation on the red palm weevil bioactive
components. The obtained results showed that R. ferrugineus larvae were more affected by starvation
with the rate of 31.82 - 50.00 % and 34.91 & 48.65 % reduction, while the rate of reduction in adults
were 5.60 & 22.40 % and 40.67 & 46.00 % in total proteins and carbohydrates after 48 and 120 h.,
respectively. It was, also noticed that larvae could not renew their activity again after feeding them
again after 5 days of starvation. Data also showed that, the ability of R. ferrugineus adults to survive
in face of adverse conditions is very strong. The physiological underpinnings of bio-chemical
components and enzymes activity in face of starvation could be useful to assist in pest control. This
study provides useful information for improving current management strategies against R.
ferrugineus. Knowledge about the effect of starvation on the insect´s bioactive components may help
for improving the applied control methods to decrease the damage caused by this insect. |
