Sweet Potato Weevil

Natural Habitat

Found in agricultural fields, gardens, and storage areas where sweet potatoes are present; native to the Indo-Pacific but widespread globally.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily feeds on all parts of the sweet potato plant, including leaves, stems, and especially the roots/tubers.

Behavior Patterns

The insect has a distinctive ant-like appearance. Females lay eggs inside tubers; larvae tunnel through the potato, creating bitter-tasting terpenoids. They are active year-round in warm climates.

Risks & Benefits

Significant agricultural pest; can cause total crop loss. Harmless to humans directly (non-biting/non-venomous), but the infested tubers they leave behind are inedible and bitter.

Identified on: 5/17/2026