Comparison of host plant preferences fecundity and longevity for dietreared and fieldcollected Fullers rose weevil

Abstract

The New Zealand kiwifruit industry continues to face high fumigation costs when exporting fruit to Japan mainly due to the presence of egg masses of Fullers rose weevil Naupactus cervinus (Crotch) (Coleoptera Curculionidae) on fruit Experiments were carried out to ascertain whether adult FRW have feeding preferences for plants commonly found in the kiwifruit orchard ecosystem and whether the behaviour of adults reared on artificial diet is different to that of fieldreared FRW In nochoice and choice tests adults consumed more foliage of broadleaf dock (Rumex obtusifolius) and white clover (Trifolium repens) than other host plants Dietreared adults consumed less overall than fieldcollected adults Fecundity and longevity of adult FRW caged in a shade house was determined Adults laid more eggs when provided with broadleaf dock or white clover than with creeping buttercup (Ranunculus repens) or kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) Maximum longevity of caged adults was 12 months