Conditions that Affect Populations of Carpophilus humeralis F. (Coleoptera:Nitidulidae) in the Pineapple Fields of Puerto Rico

Abstract

A survey of the factors that affect the population of Carpophilus humeralis (a sap beetle pest of pineapple fruits) was conducted in the pineapple growing areas of Puerto Rico. Soil moisture as well as bad phytosanitary practices are the principal factors related to the increase of the insect population. The use of varieties resistant to gummosis, a condition of the fruit that helps the penetration of C. humeralis into the fruit, and good cultural practices decreased the insect population and the damage caused by it.