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Cyathula Weevil?

Lixinae

an unknown species of snout beetle observed at Tambach, Kenya. Photo © by Michael Plagens

Tambach, Kenya, December 2012. This one appears to use Cyathula as a host plant.

Snout Beetles, like all beetles, lead a double life. In the first stage they are grubs, caterpillar-like larvae that are designed as feeding machines. It is possible, but not certain, that this weevil's larva developes within developing seed clusters of Cyathula, the plant on which it was found. Further observation might reveal the true host of this exquisitely evolved insect.

Curculionidae -- Weevil Family

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Copyright Michael J. Plagens. Page created 6 May 2013