Apple Blossom Weevil
Anthonomus pomorum
This record describes Anthonomus pomorum (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Unless identified by a recognised expert, photographic evidence is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used. Note the beetle's size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed. The larvae feed in the buds of Apple. The blossoms appear to be brown capped after the larvae have nipped the petal bases to arrest their development. Adults generally overwinter in leaf litter. Widespread and seems to be fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Curculionidae
- Genus
- Anthonomus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On Apple, the larval food plant.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae feed in the buds of Apple. The blossoms appear to be brown capped after the larvae have nipped the petal bases to arrest their development. Adults generally overwinter in leaf litter.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and seems to be fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Anthonomus pomorum. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Apple Blossom Weevil (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Blossom Weevil
What is Apple Blossom Weevil?
Apple Blossom Weevil (Anthonomus pomorum) is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Apple Blossom Weevil found?
Habitat: On Apple, the larval food plant.
When is Apple Blossom Weevil active?
Apple Blossom Weevil: seasonal activity - All year round..
What is the life cycle of a Apple Blossom Weevil?
The larvae feed in the buds of Apple. The blossoms appear to be brown capped after the larvae have nipped the petal bases to arrest their development. Adults generally overwinter in leaf litter.