Diaprepes root weevil

Natural Habitat

Typically found in citrus groves, ornamental nurseries, and tropical fruit plantings in the Caribbean and Southern United States.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on the leaves of over 270 different plant species including citrus and sugarcane; larvae feed on the roots of host plants.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are long-lived and most active during the day. Females lay eggs in clusters between glued leaves. Larvae drop to the ground and burrow to feed on roots before pupating in the soil.

Risks & Benefits

Major agricultural pest. Larval root feeding often girdles the crown of the root system, killing the plant or making it susceptible to fungal infections like Phytophthora. No known benefits to the ecosystem.

Identified on: 6/4/2026