About 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.
How to Identify Clover Root Weevil
Clover Root Weevil (Sitona obsoletus) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Curculionidae. Adults typically measure 3-5 mm.
Clover Root Weevil Habitat
Clover Root Weevil is found in grasslands habitats, particularly across Europe, New Zealand (invasive). This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Clover Root Weevil Diet and Feeding
Clover Root Weevil feeds on plant roots, typically during its larval stage. Root feeders can affect plant health and are sometimes considered agricultural pests.
Where Is Clover Root Weevil Found?
Clover Root Weevil can be found in Europe, New Zealand (invasive), where it inhabits grasslands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Clover Root Weevil can be found
Is Clover Root Weevil Dangerous?
Clover Root Weevil is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Clover Root Weevil Role in Nature
Clover Root Weevil is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Clover Root Weevil
What does Clover Root Weevil look like?
The Clover Root Weevil typically measures 3-5 mm.
Where is Clover Root Weevil found?
The Clover Root Weevil is found in Europe, New Zealand (invasive) and typically inhabits grasslands environments.
What does Clover Root Weevil eat?
The Clover Root Weevil feeds on plant roots.
Is Clover Root Weevil dangerous to humans?
The Clover Root Weevil is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Clover Root Weevil?
By destroying nitrogen-fixing root nodules, it reduces pasture fertility, costing New Zealand agriculture hundreds of millions of dollars annually.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Clover Root Weevil (Sitona obsoletus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/clover-root-weevil
MLA:
"Clover Root Weevil." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/clover-root-weevil.