Leaf and Bud Weevils

Rhynchitinae

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Rhynchitinae: //rɪŋˈkɪtɪni//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Haplorhynchites aeneus (40471266933) by Christina Butler from Georgia, United States. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Silphium laciniatum-Haplorhynchites aeneus by Peterwchen. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Haplorhynchites eximius by Colin Croft. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Haplorhynchites pseudomexicanus by Ashley Schmitz. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Haplorhynchites quadripennis by Todd Council. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Merhynchites wickhami - inat 132496082 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

The Rhynchitinae, commonly known as tooth-nosed snout weevils, are small beetles primarily identified by their distinct mandibles and feeding behaviors. They have a wide distribution and play notable roles in their ecosystems, although they are not widely known.

Physical Characteristics

Small beetles ranging from 1.5 to 6.5 mm in length, characterized by the presence of teeth on the edges of their mandibles.

Identification Tips

Look for small beetles in vegetation with distinctive toothed mandibles and active feeding behavior on buds, fruits, and seeds.

Habitat

Typically found in vegetation, including flowers, buds, and leaves.

Distribution

Worldwide, with a significant presence throughout much of North America; more than 160 species in the New World.

Diet

Larvae mine live or dead leaves, develop in fruit, cut flower heads, or terminal shoots; adults often feed on buds and seeds.

Life Cycle

Life cycle involves larvae mining and developing within plant tissues; oviposition occurs in plant structures such as buds and fruits.

Reproduction

Oviposition typically occurs in buds, fruits, or seeds.

Ecosystem Role

Play a role in plant ecology through feeding and development within various plant tissues.

Economic Impact

Some species, such as the rose curculio, can affect ornamental plants like roses.

Cultural Significance

Not widely recognized in cultural contexts, though some species may have local significance related to gardening or agriculture.

Collecting Methods

  • Hand collection from host plants
  • Light traps
  • Beat sheets

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Drying specimens
  • Pinning for display

Evolution

Traditionally considered a subfamily of Attelabidae, some authorities classify them as a separate family Rhynchitidae.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some people confuse them with other types of weevils due to their similar body shapes and feeding habits.

Tags

  • Coleoptera
  • Weevils
  • Curculionoidea
  • Rhynchitinae
  • Entomology