Gray Sunflower Seed Weevil
Smicronyx sordidus
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Curculionoidea
- Family: Curculionidae
- Subfamily: Curculioninae
- Tribe: Smicronychini
- Genus: Smicronyx
- Species: sordidus
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Smicronyx sordidus: /smiˈkroː.nʏks ˈsɔr.dɪ.dʊs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
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Summary
Smicronyx sordidus, commonly known as the gray sunflower seed weevil, is a small beetle that primarily feeds on sunflowers and reproduces annually, having a significant impact on sunflower crops.
Physical Characteristics
Adults are 2.1-2.4 mm long and pale gray in color.
Identification Tips
Look for small size and pale gray coloration characteristic of the Smicronyx genus.
Habitat
Found predominantly in sunflower fields where they feed on sunflower buds and tissues.
Distribution
Widely distributed in the United States, except for the southeastern region (California, Texas, West Virginia, Nebraska, Washington).
Diet
Both adult males and females consume sunflower buds, and sometimes plant tissues.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Smicronyx sordidus lasts about one year.
Reproduction
Females lay eggs in sunflower seeds, specifically within the developing seeds.
Ecosystem Role
Plays a role in the ecological interactions of sunflower fields by influencing seed viability through herbivory.
Economic Impact
Can potentially impact sunflower crops, reducing seed production and quality.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection from host plants
- Traps set around sunflower fields
Preservation Methods
- Drying specimens
- Using ethanol for preservation
Misconceptions
Often mistaken for other small gray weevils due to size and coloration.
Tags
- beetle
- weevil
- Curculionidae
- agriculture
- pests