Broad-nosed weevils
Scientific name: Sitona
Broad-nosed weevils
Scientific name: Sitona
Photo By Liam O'Brien , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Notably, many Sitona species are referred to as pea weevils due to their peculiar diet. They possess the unique ability to 'eavesdrop' on the nitrogen-fixing bacteria within legume roots and interfere primarily during plant seedling stages. This interrupts the plant's nutrient uptake, showcasing a fascinating but disruptive example of insect-plant interactions. Despite their damaging reputation among farmers, studying Sitona provides valuable insight into pest management and agroecosystem dynamics.
Species of Broad-nosed weevils
Photo By Liam O'Brien , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original