Pest Photo

Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series

Alfalfa weevil

Hypera postica

Alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica) is an insect pest of alfalfa. It is a native of Europe and was first detected in Utah in 1904.

The larvae do most of the damage, though adults do damage as well. Early feeding on plant buds stunts plant growth. As the larvae grow, they feed on plant leaves. Larvae can be seen curled around stems or leaves. A field will take on a grayish appearance as feeding continues.