Cabbage Stem Weevil
Ceutorhynchus pallidactylus
This record describes Ceutorhynchus pallidactylus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a small (about 3 mm) dark weevil with scattered white or creamy scales, generally dense behind scutellum. 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. Anywhere where members of the Brassica family grow. The larvae develop in the stems of Brassicas. Widespread in England and Wales, but sometimes local depending on the availability of its food plant. It is generally common and can be abundant where Brassica crops are grown.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Ceutorhynchinae
- Tribe
- Ceutorhynchini
- Genus
- Ceutorhynchus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Anywhere where members of the Brassica family grow.
Seasonal Activity
Most often seen from spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae develop in the stems of Brassicas.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales, but sometimes local depending on the availability of its food plant. It is generally common and can be abundant where Brassica crops are grown.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ceutorhynchus pallidactylus. 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 Cabbage Stem Weevil (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Stem Weevil
What is Cabbage Stem Weevil?
Cabbage Stem Weevil (Ceutorhynchus pallidactylus) is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Cabbage Stem Weevil found?
Habitat: Anywhere where members of the Brassica family grow.
When is Cabbage Stem Weevil active?
Cabbage Stem Weevil: seasonal activity - Most often seen from spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Cabbage Stem Weevil?
The larvae develop in the stems of Brassicas.