Coraliomela brunnea (Thunberg, 1821) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae): Occurrence of a Pest of Cocos nucifera in the State of Alagoas, Northeastern Brazil

The fruit of Cocos nucifera Linnaeus (Arecales: Arecaceae) is widely marketed in Brazil, especially in the Northeast Region, where it is consumed fresh and used as a raw material for products such as flour, milk, and oil, while its water is widely appreciated as a beverage. Diseases and pests, including defoliating beetles, compromise coconut production. This study aimed to report the first occurrence of Coraliomela brunnea (Thunberg, 1821) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) damaging plants of C. nucifera var. Green Dwarf in the state of Alagoas, Northeastern Brazil, and to update its current distribution. Defoliation caused by Co. brunnea was observed on a young C. nucifera var. Green Dwarf plant, highlighting its importance as a pest of young coconut plants. This record of Co. brunnea in Alagoas expands its known distribution in the Northeastern Region.