Sweetpotato Weevil, Cylas formicarius (Fabricius) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Brentidae)

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an in-depth profile of the sweetpotato weevil, Cylas formicarius, highlighting its significance as a major pest of sweet potatoes globally. It covers the weevil's distribution, life cycle, host plants, natural enemies, and the damage it causes. Management strategies, including sampling, insecticides, cultural practices, biological control, and other methods, are discussed to mitigate the impact of this pest. The document aims to inform both laypersons with some biological knowledge and academic audiences about the challenges and solutions related to sweetpotato weevil infestations. First published 1998.