Leaf Weevil

Polydrusus weevil

Polydrusus impressifrons, also known as the the leaf weevil or pale green weevil, is sometimes found in large numbers in nurseries in the late spring/early summer. This weevil is European in origin and first found in New York in 1906. They are reported to feed on leaves of trees such as apple, birch, black locust, blueberry, elm, linden, oak, peach, pear, plum, poplar, rose, strawberry and willow (Beers et al, 2003; Rosetta, personal observation). They are rarely considered a pest but shade tree growers might want to inspect for terminal feeding and loss. Their feeding can be more of a problem on smaller, liner-sized plant material. Their larvae feed on roots.

References:

Beers, E., M. Klaus, A. Gebhard, S. Cockfield, Rich Zack, and C. O'Brien. 2003. Proceedings of the 77th Annual Western Orchard Pest & Disease Management Conference

Niedbala, J. 2012. Biology of a little known weevil: Polydrusus impressifrons. <Nov. 12, 2012).

Parrot, P.J. and H. Glasgow. The leaf weevil (Polydrusus impressifrons Gyll.) in New York. 46 Annual Report of the Entomological Society of Ontario. 1915 1916. pp 60-65. <3 May 2016>

Very nice shot of the weevil's mandibles can be found at this site (language is French but the picture is universal)

Nice images of various Polydrusus weevil species along with helpful hints to distinguish P. sericeus and P. impressifrons are available at the BugGuide webpage on these weevils.

 

Orginal publication: 4/30/2007
Latest publication: 5/3/2016

 

Author: R.L. Rosetta, Extension Nursery Integrated Pest Management, Department of Horticulture, Oregon State University