Hypera postica

Definition

A species of weevil in the family Curculionidae, commonly known as the alfalfa weevil. Native to Europe and accidentally introduced to North America, where it became a major pest of alfalfa (Medicago sativa). Larvae feed on leaf buds and growing tips, while adults skeletonize leaves; heavy infestations can reduce forage yield and quality significantly. Management relies heavily on classical biological control, including introduced parasitoid wasps such as Bathyplectes curculionis and Bathyplectes anurus, as well as predatory beetles.

Etymology

Example

In the western United States, Hypera postica populations are monitored using sweep-net sampling in spring to time releases of the parasitoid Bathyplectes curculionis before larval densities peak.

Synonyms

• alfalfa weevil

Related Terms

• Curculionidae
• Bathyplectes curculionis
• Classical biological control
• alfalfa pest
• Coleoptera

Usage Notes

The specific epithet is often misspelled 'postica' (correct) versus 'posticus'; the species was originally described in the genus Phytonomus. Distinguish from Hyperaspis postica, a lady beetle (Coccinellidae) with no known agricultural significance.