Numerous species
Pest description and damage Species identification is important as root weevil species differ in their susceptibility to pesticides and seasonal appearance of life stages. Adult weevils are 0.2 to 0.25 inch in length, dark colored, nocturnal beetles with a snout (rostrum) and elbowed antennae. They cannot fly, so distribution is generally through movement of infested plants, soil, or debris. The larvae are C-shaped, legless, and white or slightly reddish with tan heads, up to 0.5 inch in size. The larvae of all species are similar in appearance and feed on root hairs, larger roots and on the root crown. Look for ragged notches on the edges of leaves, or flower petals. Check the base of unthrifty shrubs for evidence of root or crown girdling by the larvae.
For biology, life history, monitoring and management
See "Root weevil" in:
Management-chemical control
See Table 5 in: