It is difficult to detect the early infestation, since the larva begins its life inside the palm and normally never comes to the surface. Therefore, neither the larva, nor the damage caused by it can be directly seen.

In the late infestation, a brownish viscous liquid is oozed out and pieces of chewed fibers are protruded from a small holes in the crown or the stem. The attack by the weevil is noticed only when the tree has been fatally wounded and is beyond repair.

The rotting of tissue due to infestation by this pest presents a characteristic odor. Wilting or yellowing of leaves is observed.

The brownish viscous liquid oozed out from date palm

Cocoon at the leaf base

Symptoms of late infestation

RPW causes death to palms

Economic Importance and Damage

Symptom in Date Palm    Site of infestation of RPW at Date Palm