Abstract:
Beetles represent a significant portion of Sri
Lanka’s biodiversity, with 115 families (ca. 3,033
species) documented, making them the largest
faunal group on the island. The larval and adult
phases of about 75% of beetle species are
phytophagous and considering their significant
damage to economically important crops for
agriculture. Substantial agricultural yield is lost
each year due to rapid insect infestations could
significantly impact national food availability. It
is extremely necessary to document insect pests in
the country fundamental to pest management
strategies. This review focuses on enhancing the
understanding of major beetle pest species that
affect crops such as vegetables, fruits, grains,
coconut, rubber, rice and tea. The review
encompasses 60 species from 14 families, with a
predominant presence of pests from the
Chrysomelidae, Scarabaidae, Curculionidae,
Cerambycidae and Meloidae families. Recent field
observations suggest significant damage to
cashew plants in Wanathawilluwa. Phytophagous
beetles significantly impact vegetable crops in the
Solanaceae and Cucurbitaceae families by feeding
on soft tissues. Larvae contribute to damage by
attacking roots and stems, causing necrosis.
Within families Coccinellidae, Carabidae, and
Cicindelidae, many beetles exhibit predatory
behaviours,
while
some
demonstrate
phytophagous tendencies as opportunistic feeders.
Beetle
pests
in
families
Curculionidae,
Cerambycidae, and Scolytidae are predominantly
associated with woody crops. Understanding the
economic pest status of these beetles and their
sporadic population dynamics is crucial due to
past outbreaks in neighbouring countries,
highlighting potential risks to agriculture and
ecosystems.
