Argentine Stem Weevil

Argentine Stem Weevil (Listronotus bonariensis) like other weevils are distinguishable from beetles by their long snouts and their legless grubs

Problem Overview

Argentine Stem Weevil (Listronotus bonariensis) like other weevils is distinguishable from beetles by their long snouts and their legless grubs or larvae. Adults are small being approximately 5-10mm long and greyish brown in colour whilst the larvae are creamy white. This is mainly a pest of ryegrass in particular with the larvae feeding within the grass stem whilst the adults feed on expanded leaves.

The damage caused by adults in particular is noticeable by the windows they chew in the leaves. Damage from Argentine Stem Weevil can occur throughout the warmer months from September through until late April.

These are difficult to kill using insecticides. Cultivation prior to sowing has shown to provide a reasonable level of control in areas where numbers of stem weevils have traditionally been high. Most ryegrasses now incorporate an edophyte which is a fungus that protects the plants from Argentine Stem Weevil.

Solutions

No items found.

Other Similar Lawn Problems

Porina

Porina

Porina (Wiseana spp.) comprises several species of native moth whose caterpillars are common pest of turf.

Find a Solution
Black (African) Beetle

Black (African) Beetle

The Black Beetle(Heteronuchus arator) is generally found in the top half of the north island though it has been reported as far south as Wellington.

Find a Solution
Black Cricket

Black Cricket

These are also known as Black Field Crickets or simply field crickets.

Find a Solution

Can't Find a Solution? Get in Touch

If you’d like more information about us and our services, get in touch with us!

Contact Us