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Guides
Cryptorhynchus lapathi
Poplar-and-Willow Borer, Poplar and Willow Borer, Willow Borer, Osier Weevil, Willow Weevil
Cryptorhynchus lapathi is a Eurasian-origin weevil (Curculionidae) introduced to North America, now established as a significant pest of willow (Salix) and poplar (Populus) species. Larvae bore into stems, creating infection courts for pathogens and causing structural weakening that leads to stem breakage. The species has expanded its range considerably in British Columbia since its first detection in 1923, with prevalence linked to thermal regimes—areas with more months above 10°C show higher attack rates. Climate modeling predicts continued northward range expansion and increased suitable habitat area through 2100.