Belidae

Definition

A family of primitive weevils (Coleoptera) distinguished from the true weevils (Curculionidae) by their straight, non-geniculate antennae. Members are typically elongate with a well-developed rostrum and are associated with cycads and other gymnosperms; some species are important pollinators or seed predators of cycads.

Etymology

Example

Rhopalotria slossoni, a belid weevil in the subfamily Oxycoryninae, is the obligate pollinator of the cycad Zamia integrifolia in the southeastern United States.

Synonyms

• primitive weevils
• belids

Related Terms

• Curculionidae
• Oxycoryninae
• Rhopalotria
• cycad pollination
• rostrum
• geniculate antennae

Usage Notes

The common name 'cycad weevils' properly applies only to certain genera (Parallocorynus, Rhopalotria) within Belidae, not the entire family. Belidae are often treated as a basal lineage of weevils, and their straight antennae are considered a plesiomorphic trait contrasting with the elbowed antennae of Curculionidae. The family is sometimes split into subfamilies Belinae and Oxycoryninae in traditional classifications.