apionids

Apionids are a subfamily of true weevils (Curculionidae) characterized by their distinctive, often elongated rostrum and their small, plump bodies. The rostrum, or snout, is a prominent feature used for feeding and egg-laying. Apionids are a diverse group, with over 600 species described worldwide, belonging to numerous genera such as Apion, Nanophyes, and Aspidapion. These beetles are generally small, typically ranging from 1.5 to 5 millimeters in length, and exhibit a wide array of colors, often black, but sometimes metallic green, blue, or red.

The life cycle of apionids typically involves eggs laid within plant tissues, often in stems, leaves, or flower buds. The larvae are legless and grub-like, feeding on the host plant's sap or tissues. This feeding can sometimes cause damage to agricultural crops or native plants, although many species have minimal economic impact. Adult apionids feed on various plant parts, with their dietary preferences varying significantly between species. They are found in a wide range of habitats, from grasslands and forests to agricultural fields, wherever their host plants are present. Their ecological role includes being herbivores and sometimes serving as food for other insects or birds.