Sitona sulcifrons
This record describes Sitona sulcifrons (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3 to 4 mm. this is a plain brown weevil with a short rostrum (snout). Other Sitonia species. Dissection is necessary to distinguish between them. 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. In fields containing clovers, and on crops such as Lucerne and Alfalfa. All year but peaking in spring and summer. Associated with clovers, the larvae feeding on the root nodules. There is one generation per year, the adults living for about 12 months. Fairly frequent and widespread in England and Wales. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Curculionidae
- Genus
- Sitona
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In fields containing clovers, and on crops such as Lucerne and Alfalfa.
Seasonal Activity
All year but peaking in spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Associated with clovers, the larvae feeding on the root nodules. There is one generation per year, the adults living for about 12 months.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly frequent and widespread in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Sitona sulcifrons. 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 Sitona sulcifrons (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Sitona sulcifrons
What is Sitona sulcifrons?
Sitona sulcifrons is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Sitona sulcifrons?
3 to 4 mm. this is a plain brown weevil with a short rostrum (snout).
Where is Sitona sulcifrons found?
Habitat: In fields containing clovers, and on crops such as Lucerne and Alfalfa.
When is Sitona sulcifrons active?
Sitona sulcifrons: seasonal activity - All year but peaking in spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Sitona sulcifrons?
Associated with clovers, the larvae feeding on the root nodules. There is one generation per year, the adults living for about 12 months.