Colonization of Cerambyx dux Faldermann (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in Stone- Fruit Tree Orchards in Fohais Directorate, Jordan

A field study was conducted in five locations in Fohais Directorate, Jordan, during the period from January1, 2008 to May 15, 2009 to identify wood borers attacking stone-fruit trees, to determine the economic status of identified species and to investigate the way wood borers colonize host trees. Three wood borers were identified: Cerambyx dux Faldermann, Capnodis tenebrionis L. and Synanthedon exitosa Say. C. dux was the most economically important borer as it damages 23.77 % of cultivated trees. C. dux overwinters as partial-grown larvae, pupae and adults. Adults emerge at the time of blooming of each host and mate. Mated females colonize selected host trees and begin depositing eggs in bark crevices. Selection of preferred trees depends on: tree age, tree bark color and structure, in addition to the chemical defense system of the tree. Plums were more susceptible to colonization by C. dux than peaches. Almonds were the least susceptible host. Results were discussed, conclusions were drawn and recommendations for control management of C. dux were suggested