palmetto weevil Rhynchophorus cruentatus Fabricius (Insecta: Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Introduction

The largest weevil in North America is the palmetto weevil, Rhynchophorus cruentatus Fabricius. The palmetto weevil is native to Florida and is the only species of palm weevil in the continental United States. Once, the palmetto weevil was considered a minor pest, attacking only severely wounded and dying trees. However, it is starting to gain status as a pest of stressed nursery and transplanted palms. The adults of this species display various color variations.

Authors: Thomas J. Weissling and Robin M. Giblin-Davis, University of Florida
Photographs: Robin M. Giblin-Davis and Lyle J. Buss, University of Florida; Michael Thomas, Division of Plant Industry
Drawings: Divison of Plant Industry
Project Coordinator: Thomas R. Fasulo, University of Florida
Publication Number: EENY-13
Publication Date: August 1997. Latest revision: April 2010.
Copyright 1997-2010 University of Florida