Tomato Leafminer vs Great Mullein Weevil

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Tomato Leafminer Great Mullein Weevil
Scientific Name Tuta absoluta Cionus thapsus
Order Lepidoptera Coleoptera
Family Gelechiidae Curculionidae
Size 10-12 mm wingspan 3-4.5 mm
Habitat Underground Grasslands
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions South America, Europe, Africa, Asia Europe
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Tomato Leafminer

A devastating South American moth that mines through tomato leaves, stems, and fruits. Since 2006, it has rapidly invaded Europe, Africa, and Asia.

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Did You Know?

It can complete up to 12 generations per year in tropical regions, allowing populations to explode rapidly.

Great Mullein Weevil

A small rounded weevil found exclusively on great mullein plants. Similar to the figwort weevil but associated with different host plants. Larvae are external feeders in mucous cocoons.

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Did You Know?

Each larva lives inside its own slimy mucous cocoon attached to the mullein leaf surface.