Early Thorn vs Agave Snout Weevil

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Early Thorn Agave Snout Weevil
Scientific Name Selenia dentaria Scyphophorus acupunctatus
Order Lepidoptera Coleoptera
Family Geometridae Curculionidae
Size 32-40 mm wingspan 10-15 mm
Habitat Underground Farmland
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Mexico, Southwestern United States, Mediterranean (invasive)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Early Thorn

A moth that resembles a dead leaf when at rest, with twig-like resting posture. The spring generation is larger and darker than the summer generation. Comes readily to light.

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Did You Know?

When at rest, this moth perches with wings raised over its back like a butterfly, mimicking a dead leaf.

Agave Snout Weevil

A large, black weevil that attacks agave and yucca plants by boring into the base. It can destroy entire agave plantations used for tequila production.

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Did You Know?

Infestations of this weevil have threatened Mexico's tequila industry by killing the blue agave plants used to make the spirit.