Root Grub(Leucopholis burmeisteri)

Symptoms

• Feed on tender and mature roots of the palm.
• Results in dropping and drying of leaves.
• Palms with few years of infestation show a sickly appearance, with yellowing of leaves, tapering of stem, and reduction in yield.
• The palms may topple in case of severe loss of root system.

Management

• Plough and dig the soil deep to expose different stages of insects.
• Collect and destroy adults during peak emergence in May-June. Set up light traps and kill the collected adults.
• Addition of organic amendments and anti-feedants (neem, pongamia and oilcake) into the soil is also beneficial.