Bug Identifier
Sisal Weevil (often called an Agave Weevil)
Community identification

Sisal Weevil (often called an Agave Weevil)

Scyphophorus acupunctatus

Order & Family
Order: Coleoptera; Family: Curculionidae
Size
10 to 19 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Arid and semi-arid regions; typically found in association with Agave and Yucca plants.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous. Larvae tunnel into and feed on the heart and tissues of Agave and Yucca plants; adults feed on the leaves.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are active during the day. Females bore holes into the base of plant leaves to lay eggs. Their boring behavior often facilitates the introduction of bacteria and fungi, leading to plant rot.

Risks & Benefits

Major pest of agave and yucca species, particularly damaging to the tequila and ornamental plant industries. They have no significant benefits to humans and are considered destructive.