Occurrence of Heilipus draco (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in seeds of Ocotea puberula (Lauraceae) and its influence on germination

ABSTRACT This study aims to report the occurrence of Heilipus draco in seeds Ocotea puberula, and describe main injuries caused effects on germination, as well parasitoid hymenopterans. To this end, fruits seven trees were selected, extreme south Atlantic Forest, Brazil. Fruit collection was carried out weekly middle third canopy, forming lots, from beginning fruit formation until total dehiscence, for two years. In order examine damage by granivorous insects inside fruits, 100 sectioned taking into account batch/year with aid a scalpel analyzed using binocular stereomicroscope. same way, 144 each lot/year stored individually transparent plates verify identification species insects. The proof influence injury germination test, four replications 25 seeds, comparing without oviposition holes. H. found be associated O. puberula. egg-layings are endophytic, directly seed. Larval parasitism Hymenoptera Bracon, Omeganastatus, Scambus Triapsis observed. It is concluded that cycle egg adult takes place seed larvae decrease germination.