Management of the Main Pests of Avocado (Persea americana): A Literature Review

Abstract

Avocado (Persea americana) is one of the fruit crops with the highest economic value in Latin America and stands out for its strong demand in international markets; however, its productive sustainability is threatened by the incidence of various pests that directly affect fruit quality, plant structure, and the root system. This review article aims to critically analyze the main pests affecting avocado and current management strategies from the perspective of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Through a systematic review of 37 scientific sources published between 2015 and 2024, five major pest groups with the greatest impact were identified: Stenoma catenifer, Heilipus lauri, Leucoptera coffeella, Tetranychus urticae, and Meloidogyne spp. Their biological characteristics, effects on production, and the most effective control methods ―such as the use of pheromones, entomopathogenic fungi, and cultural practices― are described in detail. Although IPM offers promising results for sustainable pest control, structural barriers related to technical training, access to biological inputs, and institutional coordination persist. It is concluded that successful phytosanitary management of avocado requires an integrated strategy that combines scientific knowledge, public policies, and the active participation of the agricultural sector.