The population dynamics of the coffee berry borer, Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari) was studied in Paula Cândido, Minas Gerais State, Brazil (20º S; 660 m high; 1391 mm rain/year; 18º C average temperature), from November 1992 to May 1993. The following aspects were assessed weekly: phenologycal development of the fruits (small green, green, beginning maturation, mature,and dry); the number of fruits infested at each developmental stage; and the number of individuals of the borer at each developmental stage (egg, larvae, prepupa, pupa, and adults) present in infested berries. At least three complete generations of the borer were found during fruit development. A rigth skewed preference function of fruit age describes the attack of the fruits by the borer. After infestation the borer started ovipositing as fruits started maturing. Results suggest that control measures should be taken between the end of one growing season, after harvesting, and the beginning of fruit maturation in the next growing season, targeting adults before oviposition begins.
Insecta; Scolytidae; biological control; coffee pests
