Knapweed Gall Weevil vs Small Milkweed Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Knapweed Gall Weevil | Small Milkweed Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Bangasternus fausti | Lygaeus kalmii |
| Order | Coleoptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Curculionidae | Lygaeidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 10-12 mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Grasslands |
| Diet | Gall Makers | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Central Asia | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Knapweed Gall Weevil
A weevil that induces galls in knapweed flower heads. Larvae develop inside the enlarged flower buds. Used in biological control of invasive knapweeds in North America.
Did You Know?
Released in North America as biocontrol for invasive spotted knapweed, which costs ranchers millions annually.
Small Milkweed Bug
A boldly patterned red-and-black seed bug that feeds on milkweed seeds and sequesters toxic cardiac glycosides. Its warning coloration advertises its chemical defense to predators.
Did You Know?
It stores milkweed toxins in its body, making it taste terrible to birds and other predators that try to eat it.