A new apricot pest: Omaloplia labrata (Burmeister) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Sericini)

The study was carried out between April and July in the apricot fields of Baskil District of Elazığ Province in 2023-2024. In this study; within the scope of observations of harmful and beneficial insect fauna in apricot fields, it was determined that Omaloplia labrata fed and caused damage especially on the young leaves on the upper shoots of 1-3 year old apricot saplings. It was determined that individuals of the species fed intensively especially on the growth cone and left the upper parts of the saplings leafless in a short time without distinguishing the variety. It is thought that this species, which was found to have caused damage on cherry trees in the same region in previous years, will cause extensive damage on stone fruit trees. It was determined that the species was more densely found on young plants especially in April-May when leafing began and increased its population from the first week of July. It is important in terms of determining the host range of the pest that the species is seen on new saplings in much higher amounts especially in weed-free gardens where agricultural processing is intensive. Detailed study of the pest's damage status in the coming years, the climatic factors that increase its population and its control are important for apricot integrated control studies.