Otiorhynchus cribricollis

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Cribrate Weevil imported from iNaturalist photo 23315064 on 20 March 2024

Otiorhynchus cribricollis is a species of weevil in the family Curculionidae. It is commonly known as the Italian vine weevil and is a significant pest in agriculture and horticulture.

Description

Otiorhynchus cribricollis is a small beetle, typically measuring between 6 to 8 mm in length. The body is robust and covered with scales that can vary in color from brown to black. The elytra (wing covers) are fused, meaning the beetle is incapable of flight. The rostrum (snout) is short and broad, characteristic of the weevil family.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Otiorhynchus cribricollis includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The eggs are laid in the soil near the base of host plants. The larvae are legless, white grubs that feed on the roots of plants, causing significant damage. After several molts, the larvae pupate in the soil. The adult weevils emerge from the soil and feed on the foliage of host plants, creating notches along the edges of leaves.

Distribution

Otiorhynchus cribricollis is native to the Mediterranean region but has spread to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia. It is often transported through the movement of infested plant material.

Host Plants

This weevil is polyphagous, meaning it feeds on a wide variety of plants. Some of its preferred host plants include grapevines, strawberries, and various ornamental plants. The larvae primarily damage the roots, while the adults feed on the leaves.

Economic Impact

Otiorhynchus cribricollis is considered a major pest in both agricultural and horticultural settings. The root-feeding larvae can cause severe damage to crops, leading to reduced yields and even plant death. The foliar feeding by adults, while less damaging, can still affect the aesthetic quality of ornamental plants.

Control Methods

Several control methods are employed to manage Otiorhynchus cribricollis populations:

• Cultural control: Practices such as crop rotation and removal of plant debris can help reduce weevil populations.
• Biological control: Natural predators and entomopathogenic nematodes can be used to target the larvae in the soil.
• Chemical control: Insecticides may be applied to control both larvae and adults, although resistance can develop over time.

Related Pages

• Weevil
• Curculionidae
• Agricultural pest
• Biological pest control