About Cowpea Weevil
A small, reddish-brown to dark beetle with mottled elytra and a prominent pygidium bearing two dark spots. It is one of the most destructive pests of stored cowpeas and other pulses.
Did You Know?
Females glue their eggs directly onto the surface of bean seeds, and the larvae bore into the seed immediately upon hatching.
How to Identify Cowpea Weevil
Cowpea Weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Chrysomelidae. Adults typically measure 2-4 mm.
Cowpea Weevil Habitat
Cowpea Weevil is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Africa (native), pantropical, cosmopolitan. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Cowpea Weevil Diet and Feeding
Cowpea Weevil feeds on seeds and grains. Seed-feeding insects can influence plant populations by consuming seeds, and some play a role in seed dispersal.
Where Is Cowpea Weevil Found?
Cowpea Weevil can be found in Africa (native), pantropical, cosmopolitan, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Cowpea Weevil can be found
Is Cowpea Weevil Dangerous?
Cowpea 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.
Cowpea Weevil Role in Nature
Cowpea 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 Cowpea Weevil
What does Cowpea Weevil look like?
The Cowpea Weevil typically measures 2-4 mm.
Where is Cowpea Weevil found?
The Cowpea Weevil is found in Africa (native), pantropical, cosmopolitan and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Cowpea Weevil eat?
The Cowpea Weevil feeds on seeds and grains.
Is Cowpea Weevil dangerous to humans?
The Cowpea Weevil is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Cowpea Weevil?
Females glue their eggs directly onto the surface of bean seeds, and the larvae bore into the seed immediately upon hatching.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Cowpea Weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/cowpea-weevil
MLA:
"Cowpea Weevil." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/cowpea-weevil.