Coffee Bean weevil

Araecerus fasciculatus

Araecerus fasciculatus, commonly known as the Coffee Bean Weevil or Coffee Borer Beetle, is a pest that infests stored coffee beans. Here's an overview of its characteristics and management:

Overview:

Araecerus fasciculatus, the Coffee Bean Weevil, is a small beetle belonging to the family Anthribidae. It is a serious pest in coffee-producing regions, where it infests stored coffee beans, leading to quality and economic losses.

Detailed Appearance:

The Coffee Bean Weevil is a tiny beetle, typically measuring around 1.5 to 3 millimeters in length. It has an elongated, cylindrical body with a reddish-brown to black coloration. The antennae are elbowed, and the elytra (wing covers) have fine longitudinal ridges.

Life Cycle:

The life cycle of Araecerus fasciculatus includes the egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Female weevils lay eggs on coffee beans, and the larvae bore into the beans to feed. The larvae pupate within the beans, and adult weevils emerge to continue the cycle.

Identifying Infested Coffee Beans:

  1. Presence of Exit Holes: Look for tiny exit holes on the surface of coffee beans, which are indicative of adult weevils emerging.

  2. Frass: The presence of fine, powdery frass (insect excrement) within coffee bean storage is a sign of larval activity.

  3. Damaged Beans: Infested coffee beans may be discolored or have an off-flavor due to the feeding activity of larvae.

Management:

  1. Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect stored coffee beans for signs of infestation, including exit holes and frass.

  2. Proper Storage: Store coffee beans in clean, airtight containers to prevent access by adult weevils and to reduce the risk of infestation.

  3. Temperature and Humidity Control: Maintain cool and dry storage conditions for coffee beans, as the Coffee Bean Weevil thrives in warm and humid environments.

  4. Fumigation: In cases of severe infestations, fumigation with approved insecticides may be necessary. Follow recommended guidelines and safety precautions.

  5. Pheromone Traps: Use pheromone traps to monitor adult weevil populations. Traps can help in early detection and provide information for control strategies.

  6. Natural Predators: Encourage natural predators such as parasitic wasps and predatory beetles that target the Coffee Bean Weevil.

  7. Insecticide Applications: If necessary, consider applying insecticides labeled for stored product pests. Follow recommended application rates and adhere to safety guidelines.

By incorporating these identification features and management strategies, coffee producers can effectively detect and control Araecerus fasciculatus infestations, safeguarding stored coffee beans from the damaging effects of the Coffee Bean Weevil.