Endophytic-larvae
Guides
Cephini
Cephini is a tribe of stem sawflies within the family Cephidae, characterized by cylindrical, elongated bodies and larvae that bore into the stems of grasses and sedges. Members of this tribe are distinguished from related groups by their reduced wing venation and the presence of a distinct, elongated ovipositor in females. The tribe includes economically significant pests such as the wheat stem sawfly.
Zabrotes subfasciatus
Mexican bean weevil
Zabrotes subfasciatus, commonly known as the Mexican bean weevil, is a small bruchine beetle that infests stored legume seeds, particularly common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). Females deposit eggs on seed coats; larvae develop endophytically within the cotyledons, consuming the seed from the inside. A single seed can support up to 20 emerging adults. The species has demonstrated capacity to utilize alternative hosts including cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), lentil, chickpea, and soybean, with populations showing plasticity in host preference through artificial selection. Development from egg to adult takes approximately 34 days at 27°C and 70% relative humidity. Maximum female fecundity is around 55 eggs. The species is a significant post-harvest pest in tropical regions, with reported production losses up to 35%.