Fig Stem Borer

Batocera rufomaculata and other fig-associated longhorn borers

Fig Stem Borer is a species or species-complex stem borer associated with fig trunks, scaffold limbs, and large stems. Larval tunneling weakens stems, disrupts sap flow, and can cause branch breakage or tree decline. Act before internal protection develops.

Identification

Adults are large longhorn beetles; larvae are creamy, legless roundheaded borers within woody tissue. Large oval holes, coarse frass, and declining limbs are key clues. Inspect coarse frass, sap, and oval holes on fig wood, then expose a short gallery section or rear an adult for confirmation.

Symptoms / Signs

Larval tunneling weakens stems, disrupts sap flow, and can cause branch breakage or tree decline. Old holes may outlast activity.

Life Cycle / Process

Fig Stem Borer undergoes complete metamorphosis. Egg placement follows the occupied site on fig trunks, scaffold limbs, and large stems.

Prevention

Maintain vigor, prevent injury, and remove active reservoirs. Priority reservoir for this record: fig trunks, scaffold limbs, and large stems.

Management / Control

Remove and destroy infested limbs, protect pruning wounds, and prevent movement of infested wood. Preventive treatment must precede larval entry.

Procedure Steps

1. Map the freshest holes, frass, wilt, flagging, sap, or branch decline. 2. Collect the larva, pupa, or adult with the damaged tissue. 3. Close the Fig Stem Borer incident only after new internal injury stops.

Safety Notes

Avoid unnecessary broad-spectrum treatment until live damaging stages and fresh injury are confirmed. Protect pollinators, natural enemies, workers, food crops, wells, aquatic areas, and Myco-Patrons. Follow the current label for crop, site, target, PPE, restricted-entry, preharvest, and disposal requirements.