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Member Symposium

Plant-Insect Ecosystems

Systematics, Evolution, and Biodiversity

Flatheaded Borers in Specialty Crops: Lessons Learned and the Challenges Ahead

Multi-year effort in developing IPM tools for Pacific flatheaded borer, Chrysobothris mali, in California walnuts

Wednesday, November 12, 2025
11:15 AM - 11:30 AM Pacific
Location: Oregon Convention Center, Portland Ballroom 252, OCC
Oral Presentation
Pacific flatheaded borer, Chrysobothris mali (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), has become an increasing problem in commercial walnut production in California in recent years. Adults deposit eggs on cracks and crevices of the tree branches and stems, and larvae feed beneath the bark. The feeding damages the vascular tissues, leading to poor tree performance and decline. Young and mature trees can be affected. In response to this emerging threat, we conducted a series of studies to better understand the pest’s biology and seasonal phenology and develop management strategies. Our recent research showed that yellow or red color ground-applied triangular traps attracted the most significant numbers of beetles. Chemical management strategies have also been assessed, particularly foliar sprays targeting newly emerged adults and neonatal larvae, showed a reduction in damage. An overview of the flatheaded borer pest and advances in developing IPM strategies for managing this pest in walnut orchards will be discussed.