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Honolulu Hawaii Pest and Termite Control | Kilauea Pest Control Co.

Oahu's Pest Solution

Coconut Beetle Control

(Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle)

Coconut beetles—also known as the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB)— are one of Hawaii’s most destructive invasive pests, first discovered on the islands in December 2013. These beetles bore into palm crowns, killing trees and causing costly damage to landscapes and farms. At Kilauea Pest Control, we’re dedicated to stopping CRB damage across Hawaii.

If you’d like to learn more about the ongoing fight against CRB in Hawaiʻi, the Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council provides in-depth resources on their spread and control efforts.

Key Indicators of CRB Damage

  • V-shaped cuts or holes in fronds: These distinctive marks appear when CRBs bore into the developing leaves. If you notice such damage, it may indicate that the infestation has been ongoing for some time .
  • Bore holes in palm crowns or trunks: Adult beetles tunnel into the crown or upper trunk of palm trees, leaving visible holes that can weaken the tree and create entry points for disease.
  • Fronds with shredded or ragged edges: As the beetles feed on the palm’s sap, the edges of the fronds may become uneven or torn.
  • Small piles of chewed plant material (frass) near the base: This debris is a sign of the beetles’ feeding activity.
  • Stunted or slowed palm growth: Infested trees often exhibit reduced growth rates or overall decline in health.

Protect Your Palms Today

Contact Kilauea Pest Control to learn more about our Coconut Rhinoceros beetle services and keep your trees thriving.

FAQs

How can I tell if my tree has coconut beetle damage?

Look for these common signs:

  • V-shaped cuts in fronds
  • Boreholes in the crown or trunk
  • Shredded or ragged leaf edges
  • Piles of chewed plant material (frass) near the base
  • Slowed or stunted palm growth
Why are coconut beetles so destructive?

They attack the newest growth at the palm’s crown, which is vital to the tree’s survival. Once the crown is damaged, the tree weakens, growth slows, and in severe cases, the palm may die.

Where do coconut beetles breed?

CRB breeding sites are usually found in decaying green waste, mulch piles, and compost. Managing these breeding areas is one of the most effective ways to slow their spread.