Mandalotus weevils (Mandalotus sp.) have been identified causing damage to a canola crop near Young, in the South West Slopes district of New South Wales. Agronomist, David Crowley (Delta Agribusiness), says the affected area had suffered significant damage and control options were being considered. There are currently no chemicals registered for controlling Mandalotus weevils, however some growers have reported some success using high rates of bifenthrin or chlorpyrifos.
Adult Mandalotus weevils are 3-5 mm long and have a rounded, dull brown coloured body, which can easily be mistaken for a small clod of dirt. They actively feed during the night and can be extremely difficult to detect during the day. This season has seen numerous reports of Mandalotus weevils damaging canola crops across various regions of Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia. Occurrences of this pest appear to have increased in southern Australia in recent years. This may be reflective of an increased adoption of minimum tillage and stubble retention practices that create a more favourable habitat.
Click here for images of Mandalotus weevils and refer to PestFacts Issue No. 3 for more information.