Asiatic Oak Weevil – Cytepistomus castaneus

Asiatic Oak Weevil (Cyrtepistomus castaneus) Common Name: Asiatic Oak Weevil Latin Name: Cytepistomus castaneus Appearance: Cyrtepistomus castaneus, the Asiatic oak weevil, is a little (1/4 to 1/3 inch long) broadnosed weevil. It is typically greenish-gray, but if its scales are worn away, it might seem reddish-brown. Host plant: Asiatic oak weevils typically feed on oaks and chestnuts, although they can also feed on other woody plants. According to the UK Forestry Commission, adults are given red oak, and black oak leaves survive longer and produce much more eggs than those fed white oak or sugar maple leaves. Territory: Asiatic oak weevils are found in North America. Damages caused by Asiatic Oak Weevil: The Asiatic oak weevil is the most common type of bug that feeds on leaves and chews them off of oak trees. The adults feed on the leaves, while the larvae eat the roots of the trees. This insect species have the potential to alter the dynamics of the forests due to its high population density and the fact that it feeds on seedlings. Life history and habits: During the spring, the grubs pupate, and new adults emerge to feed on the leaves of oak and chestnut trees. Asiatic oak weevils develop in May and peak in late June and early July. They graze on the leaf edges, sometimes eating everything save the main veins. This weevil hides in leaves held together by caterpillars. The weevils begin laying eggs in the soil in July and continue until early autumn. Asiatic oak weevils can be a nuisance in the home since they appear to be looking for a place to hibernate.