Clover Root Weevil vs Crane Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Clover Root Weevil | Crane Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sitona obsoletus | Tipula paludosa |
| Order | Coleoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Curculionidae | Tipulidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 15-25 mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Gardens |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Root Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, New Zealand (invasive) | Europe, North America, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Clover Root Weevil
A small, grey-brown weevil that feeds on clover roots and nitrogen-fixing nodules. It became a major invasive pest in New Zealand pastures.
Did You Know?
By destroying nitrogen-fixing root nodules, it reduces pasture fertility, costing New Zealand agriculture hundreds of millions of dollars annually.
Crane Fly
Often mistaken for giant mosquitoes but completely harmless. Adults often do not feed at all. Larvae (leatherjackets) live in soil and can be lawn pests.
Did You Know?
Despite looking terrifying, crane flies are completely harmless — they cannot bite or sting. Most adults live just a few days and many never eat at all.