Biology and management of Ceutorhynchus obstrictus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in spring-planted canola on the Northern Great Plains

The cabbage seedpod weevil, Ceutorhynchus obstrictus (Marsham) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), is an invasive pest infesting canola (Brassica napus L. and B. rapa L. (Brassicales: Brassicaceae)) crops in North America. Larval feeding causes significant damage leading to yield losses of 5-30%. Native to the Palearctic region, the species was accidentally introduced to North America over 90 yr ago, and now occupies most temperate regions of Canada and the United States. Currently, the species has been projected to continue its range expansion to potentially infest most canola producing regions in North America. Here, we review the taxonomic nomenclature, distribution, biology, pest status, and management of the cabbage seedpod weevil in North America with an emphasis on spring-planted canola crops in the Great Plains and highlight areas for future research to develop a comprehensive integrated pest management program against this debilitating pest.