Biological and ecological characteristics, distribution, hosts, and potential for use in biological control of Coniocleonus nigrosuturatus Goeze, 1777 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Abstract

It has been determined that the weed Erodium cicutarium L., which poses a problem in pistachio production areas in Siirt province (Türkiye), can be regionally suppressed by Coniocleonus nigrosuturatus Goeze, 1777 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). The primary aim of this study was determine the prevalence and density levels of C. nigrosuturatus in Siirt province and to identify its host weed species. For this purpose, detailed surveys were conducted in 55 pistachio orchards during 2023-2024. At the end of the study, C. nigrosuturatus was encountered in 11% of the orchards. Additionally, it was determined that the target insect fed only on E. cicutarium in the study area and completed its biological stages on this weed. A review of the literature revealed that the insect has a wide distribution in Türkiye; however detailed information regarding its host range and biological control potential is lacking. Although the primary host of the species is E. cicutarium, laboratory studies have reported that it could be a significant biological agent candidate for the invasive species common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia L.). Considering the potential of A. artemisiifolia to cause significant problems in Türkiye, this article compiles and summarizes relevant information and discusses the potential of the species as a biological control agent. When our survey results and related literature are considered together, it is evident that C. nigrosuturatus could be effective in the biological control of E. cicutarium and A. artemisiifolia; however, detailed studies are needed.