Pea-leaf Weevil
Sitona lineatus
This record describes Sitona lineatus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
3.4-5.3mm. This is the commonest of the Sitona weevils and has dark longitudinal stripes. Unlike many weevils, it has a very short, almost squared off rostrum or snout. Front coxae almost touch the constriction at the front margin of the prosternum (c.f. S. obsoletus where there is a clear gap). Other Sitona species with flat bristles: lineatus, cylindricollis, humeralis, obsoletus, puncticollis, sulcifrons, suturalis, lateralis. Dissection is often necessary to confirm the species. If the identification isn't confirmed then record as ' Sitona '. 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. Almost any habitat, in winter retreating into grass tussocks, under loose bark or amongst fallen leaves. It does indeed feed on both peas and beans in gardens but only in a very minor way and causes very little damage to the crop. As an adult, this small creature feeds on the leaves of many leguminous species including Red and White Clover although for some reason it avoids Lupins. The larvae feed on the roots of the same species under the soil. Common and widespread in England and Wales.
Identification notes
isn't confirmed then record as '
Wikipedia reference for Sitona lineatus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sitona_lineatus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Entiminae
- Tribe
- Sitonini
- Genus
- Sitona
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Almost any habitat, in winter retreating into grass tussocks, under loose bark or amongst fallen leaves.
Seasonal Activity
Throughout the year.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It does indeed feed on both peas and beans in gardens but only in a very minor way and causes very little damage to the crop. As an adult, this small creature feeds on the leaves of many leguminous species including Red and White Clover although for some reason it avoids Lupins. The larvae feed on the roots of the same species under the soil.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Sitona lineatus. 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 Pea-leaf Weevil (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pea-leaf Weevil
What is Pea-leaf Weevil?
Pea-leaf Weevil (Sitona lineatus) is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Pea-leaf Weevil?
isn't confirmed then record as '
Where is Pea-leaf Weevil found?
Habitat: Almost any habitat, in winter retreating into grass tussocks, under loose bark or amongst fallen leaves.
When is Pea-leaf Weevil active?
Pea-leaf Weevil: seasonal activity - Throughout the year..
What is the life cycle of a Pea-leaf Weevil?
It does indeed feed on both peas and beans in gardens but only in a very minor way and causes very little damage to the crop. As an adult, this small creature feeds on the leaves of many leguminous species including Red and White Clover although for some reason it avoids Lupins. The larvae feed on the roots of the same species under the soil.