Curculioninae

Curculioninae is a large subfamily within the true weevils, Curculionidae. Members are commonly referred to as weevils or snout beetles, and the group includes a diverse range of genera and species. The subfamily name derives from the type genus Curculio, which historically helped define many of the characteristic features shared by this group.

Morphology and identification in Curculioninae often center on the elongated rostrum (snout) and the elbowed, typically clubbed antennae common to many weevils. Body forms are varied, with coloration and sculpturing ranging from smooth and glossy to densely sculptured or scaled. As with other Curculionidae, the tarsi are often pseudotetramerous in appearance, and many species exhibit adaptations for feeding on plant tissues.

Ecology and life history of Curculioninae are strongly plant-associated. Most species feed on seeds, fruits, seeds within pods, or other plant parts, and several have close associations with particular host plants. Larvae generally develop inside plant tissues, such as seeds, fruits, or stems, sometimes causing economic damage. Some species also attack stored seeds or grains, bringing them into agricultural pest status in certain regions.

Distribution is worldwide, with the greatest diversity in temperate and tropical regions. The subfamily includes numerous tribes and hundreds of genera, reflecting a wide range of host preferences and ecological roles. The Curculioninae are an important component of forest and agro-ecosystems, contributing to seed predation, plant population regulation, and, in some cases, economic losses.

Systematics within Curculioninae is an active area of study, with ongoing revisions based on morphology and molecular data. The subfamily remains a major lineage within Curculionidae, illustrating the extensive diversity of true weevils.