Bioecologia da broca-do-café, Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari, 1867) (Coleoptera: Scolytidae), no agroecossistema cafeeiro do cerrado de Minas Gerais

Abstract

This research focused to study the bioecology of the coffee berry borer and its parasitoids in an area of "Cerrado" in Minas Gerais State. Monitoring was carried out in three coffee fields in the counties of Patrocínio and Carmo do Paranaíba, MG. Samples of coffee fruits (three liters/sample) were collected monthly, from April 1999 to December 2000 in an area of approximately 0.3 ha in each field. Fruits were collected at pre- and post-harvest, including those already fallen and analyzed in the laboratory conditions. The parameters as the infestation level, development stage of the coffee berry borer and the presence of its parasitoids were evaluated. Despite of the dry conditions observed during the survey period, predominantly from April to October 1999, the insect survival was not so much affected. The coffee borer population was very high (July/2000) at the end of the harvest, and the damaged fruit reached a range of 15.8 to 48.8%. No parasitoids on the coffee berry borer during the survey period were found. The population level and development rate indicated that the coffee berry borer found favorable environmental conditions for its development in the studied area and control measures are required for reducing its damage.