Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle

The coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros) is native to Asia. Adult beetles grow to 2 inches (5 cm). These large beetles fly up to the top of palm trees and chew through the stems of emerging palm fronds to feed on the sugary sap. Distinctive V shaped cuts can be seen when the coconut leaves mature and open. Adult beetles will also feed on pandanus, pineapple, banana, and sugarcane.

The coconut rhinoceros beetles reproduce by laying their eggs in the rotting trunks of dead palm trees. The beetle larvae feed on the rotting trees. Larvae can also be found in composting piles of yard waste.

The card shows what happens when the beetle feeds on the endemic Hawaiian loulu fan palm (Prichardia hillebrandii). A distinctive pattern of damage different from coconut leaves can be seen on the mature fan palm leaves.

The coconut rhinoceros beetle has the potential to be a major pest, if left uncontrolled. Several other Pacific Islands are battling this invasive beetle.