Peltophorus polymitus
Boheman, 1845
Speckled Agave Weevil
Peltophorus polymitus is a true () to North America, widely distributed throughout Mexico. and feed on multiple agave , including cultivated plants used for food, medicine, and mezcal production. Despite causing documented damage, it has not been formally classified as a . Two are recognized: P. p. seminiveus and P. p. suffusus.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Peltophorus polymitus: /pɛlˈtɒfərəs pɒˈlɪmɪtəs/
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Habitat
Agave areas and wild agave plantations, particularly in regions where agave are grown for agricultural or commercial purposes. Associated with plants in both managed and natural settings.
Distribution
North America, with confirmed records throughout Mexico including Michoacán and Durango. Distribution extends across multiple Mexican states where agave occur.
Diet
and feed on agave tissue, specifically leaves and needles. Documented feeding on Agave angustifolia, A. cupreata, A. durangensis, A. inaequidens, A. kerchovei, A. palmeri, and A. tequilana.
Host Associations
- Agave angustifolia - cultivated
- Agave cupreata - cultivated
- Agave durangensis - cultivated
- Agave inaequidens - wild plantation, Michoacán; first documented occurrence reported 2019
- Agave kerchovei - cultivated
- Agave palmeri - cultivated
- Agave tequilana - cultivated; used for tequila production
Life Cycle
Both and larval stages are present simultaneously in . A single study site recorded 166 adults and 172 , indicating overlapping or extended breeding periods. Specific developmental stages and duration unknown.
Behavior
Causes visible damage to agave plants through feeding activity on leaves and needles. Not formally considered an agricultural pest despite consistent association with cultivated agave and documented economic impact on plants used for mezcal production.
Ecological Role
specializing on agave . Potential economic pest of agave , particularly affecting rural dependent on agave for food, medicinal purposes, and mezcal production.
Human Relevance
Negative economic impact on agave , particularly for mezcal and tequila production industries. Affects rural using agave for subsistence and commercial purposes. Not formally recognized or managed as a despite documented damage.