The Alfalfa Weevil (Hypera postica) is a small, destructive insect that poses a significant threat to alfalfa crops. Native to Europe and Asia, it has spread to various parts of North America and beyond. The adult weevil is a beetle with a distinctive snout, while its larvae are the primary culprits in damaging alfalfa plants.
Life Cycle and Behavior
The Alfalfa Weevil undergoes a complete metamorphosis with four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
Egg: Adult female weevils lay eggs on the alfalfa leaves in early spring. The eggs are tiny, cylindrical, and often laid in clusters.
Larva: Upon hatching, larvae feed on the alfalfa leaves, causing the most damage. They are small, greenish, and can rapidly defoliate a plant if not controlled. Larvae can cause significant reductions in yield and quality of the alfalfa.
Pupa: After feeding, larvae pupate in the soil or among plant debris. This stage is relatively short, lasting about a week.
Adult: Adult weevils emerge from the pupal stage in early summer, ready to begin the cycle anew. They can live for several months and continue to cause damage.
