Smicronyx
Smicronyx
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Curculionoidea
- Family: Curculionidae
- Subfamily: Curculioninae
- Tribe: Smicronychini
- Genus: Smicronyx
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Smicronyx: /smɪˈkrɒnɪks/
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Images
Summary
Smicronyx is a genus of true weevils in the family Curculionidae, comprising over 220 described species found worldwide, particularly associated with the plant families Asteraceae and Convolvulaceae.
Physical Characteristics
Body length ranges from 1.4 to 4.0 mm. Many species are sexually dimorphic, requiring both male and female specimens for accurate identification. Scale pattern varies within a species but is generally consistent enough to aid in identification.
Identification Tips
Collect and compare specimens of both sexes for accurate species identification; check for scale patterns as a distinguishing feature.
Habitat
Found in various habitats, commonly associated with host plants.
Distribution
Holarctic, Afrotropical, Australian regions; extends throughout most of North America down to Nicaragua.
Diet
Larvae primarily feed on seeds and may cause galls on host plants.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Smicronyx involves egg-laying in host seeds, where larvae develop within.
Reproduction
Detailed reproductive behaviors are not specified, but may include oviposition within host plants.
Ecosystem Role
They play a role in the ecology of their habitats by interacting with specific host plants, potentially influencing seed populations.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collecting from host plants
- Traps baited with specific attractants
Preservation Methods
- Pinning specimens
- Ethanol preservation
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some species may be mistaken for other similar beetles due to their small size and dimorphism.
Tags
- Coleoptera
- Curculionidae
- Smicronyx
- insects
- beetles