Abstract

During 2011 to 2013, Intensive damage of unknown beetle pest was seen in Kohgiluyeh va Boyerahmad Province, Iran, on Crown imperial (Fritillaria imperialisis L.), an invasive wild flower of Iran. Damages on leaves, stem, buds, seeds as well as flowers and rapidly destroying of the host plant were seen by the pest, extensively. Present investigation was done by the need to identify the pest on F. imperialis. This plant is growing well in Zagros mountain of Iran, especially in Kohgiluyeh va Boyerahmad Province which is located at the southwest of Iran. The insect was identified as Lilioceris chodjaii (Berti & Rapilly) based on a synopsis of the Oriental Lilioceris species, review of the Lilioceris species group and key provided for their identification. Larvae of the L. chodjaii did feed extensively and indiscriminately from different areal parts of the host plant. Adults of the pest were found as overwinter and dormancy phase of the pest in the soil beneath the Fritillaries plant during winter. The adult elytra (harder forewings) were bright scarlet and shiny, adult insect having black long legs, antennae and big eyes. Due to importance of F. imperialis as well as broad spectrum of the pest, pest monitoring and pest management programs should be taken in order to reduce pest damages in the future.