Abstract
1. Melittomma insulare is a serious pest of coconuts in parts of Seychelles and Madagascar.2. In Seychelles the insect is only known from a few of the islands, its distributio being dependent on the original distribution of its primitive host-plants which are two species of endemic palms.3. The eggs are laid under cover in batches and hatch in eleven days. The larvae feed in galleries in the base of the trunk for an indefinite period depending on the sappiness of the wood. Pupation takes place in the enlarged end of a boring. The adult is nocturnal and short-lived.4. The damage caused depends on the age and situation of the tree which is attacked. Other things being equal trees growing on good soils are damaged least.5. Several other species of insects are associated with Melittomma, but all are of minor importance.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
