Bridging the Knowledge Gaps for Development of Basic Components of Red Palm Weevil IPM

A meeting was held at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal (Saudi Arabia) in March 16–18, 2013 on research and development needs for the control of red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus. Participants included both RPW researchers of long standing and a select group of experts associated with the development of new biotechnology approaches for pest and plant disease control. Participants made presentations on several aspects of RPW management including monitoring, sterile insect technique (SIT), semiochemical, biological and chemical control methods. Relatively little is known about RPW biology, behavior, and resistance to chemical pesticides. The resistance of date palm cultivars has not been investigated and it is not known whether there is a species complex or cryptic subspecies of this serious insect pest of palm tree in the Middle East. The meeting participants also discussed new technologies being used for other pest/crop complexes and how these might be applied to address the RPW problem of palm trees, as well as how genetic modification should be regulated and whether it would be accepted socially. Participants further proposed the creation of a collaborative organization to coordinate and encourage pursuit of innovative research strategies for the monitoring and control of RPW through the development of a strategic plan and establishment of a research program funded through national and international organizations.