Tychius stephensi

Schoenherr, 1835

red clover seed weevil

Tychius stephensi is a small weevil in the Curculionidae, commonly known as the red clover seed weevil. The is native to Europe and has been introduced to North America, where it is now widespread. It is associated with leguminous plants, particularly species of Trifolium (clover). As a seed weevil, it develops within the seeds of its host plants.

Tychius stephensi by (c) Barry Walter, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Barry Walter. Used under a CC-BY license.

Tychius.stephensi.-.calwer.33.12 by Emil Hochdanz
. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tychius stephensi: /ˈtɪkiəs ˈstɛfɛnsi/

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Identification

Tychius stephensi can be distinguished from other introduced Tychius in North America using morphological keys. It differs from T. picirostris, T. cuprifer, and T. meliloti in specific structural features detailed in taxonomic keys. The species is specifically associated with Trifolium plants, whereas T. meliloti is associated with Melilotus species.

Images

Distribution

Native to Europe; introduced and widespread in North America. Documented in Canada (Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec) and the United States. GBIF records indicate presence in Belgium.

Host Associations

Trifolium - plant of clover ; specific plant associations at the species level not documented in available sources

Human Relevance

Known as a pest of red clover (Trifolium pratense), damaging seed production. The "red clover seed weevil" reflects its agricultural significance in clover .

Similar Taxa

Tychius picirostrisAnother introduced European in North America with Trifolium plants; distinguished by morphological keys
Tychius melilotiIntroduced European distinguished by association with Melilotus plants rather than Trifolium
Tychius cupriferIntroduced European with more limited North American distribution (Maryland only); distinguished by morphological keys

More Details

Taxonomic note

Authority sometimes cited as Schoenherr, 1835 or Schönherr, 1836 in different sources; these refer to the same original description.

Introduction history

One of four Tychius introduced from Europe to North America, alongside T. picirostris, T. cuprifer, and T. meliloti.