Mosquitoes might be the most notorious insects around, and they abound throughout Micronesia. The most common diseases spread by these bugs are dengue virus and malaria, although there have been outbreaks of other illnesses in Micronesia linked to mosquitoes. Eradicating their breeding ground is the best defense against mosquitoes. Stagnant water is their favorite place to breed. Keeping stocked water covered, as well as draining areas where rain collects and stagnates, is the best way to stop mosquitoes from breeding. Pesticides are another option, but they can be harmful to the environment. If possible, tourists should use mosquito repellent when visiting islands in Micronesia.
An all too common insect on Micronesia is the invasive species known as the coconut beetle. Coconut beetles eat the young leaves of the coconut tree, preventing it from growing. They also eat seedlings and mature palms and are very destructive when not controlled.
Similarly destructive is the rhinoceros beetle, which will eat through palm and coconut trees, creating holes that can kill the trees. Outbreaks of these insects can cause serious damage to the coconut industry, one of the primary crops from Micronesia.
Banana Root Borers are hated by farmers and villagers because these insects live and lay their offspring in the young stalks that would become banana trees. Their larvae bores through and weakens the corm, which is the base of the plant, causing the stem to fall. They are difficult to eradicate since they live in the small holes they create when boring through the trees, which makes them hard to reach and protects them them from predators.
