RECORD OF WEEVIL, Alcidodes sp. DAMAGING THE SEEDS OF Cinnamomum sulphuratum

Abstract

A weevil, Alcidodes sp. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) was found to infest the seeds of Cinnamomum sulphuratum. The biology of Alcidodes sp. was studied. The eggs were oval,  elongate, broadly  rounded  at  the  ends  and pale yellow  in  colour  and
lasted for about 5-8 days. The larvae were 'C' shaped, measuring 9-10 mm in length, white in colour and found feeding inside the seed for a period of 30 - 35 days, while the pupal period lasted for 12-15 days. The adults were stout, elongate, oval, black in colour and light brown  stripes  running  alternately  throughout  the  length  of  the  elytra. The mean percent  infestation  of  seeds  ranged  from  32-  38.62  during  the  two  years  of  study. Infestation  has  adversely  affected  the  seed  germination  and  a  decreasing  trend  in germination was observed, with increase in  infestation level.