Knapweed Gall Weevil vs Alpine Blue
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Knapweed Gall Weevil | Alpine Blue |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Bangasternus fausti | Albulina orbitulus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Curculionidae | Lycaenidae |
| Size | 4-6 mm | 24-30 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Grasslands |
| Diet | Gall Makers | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Central Asia | Alps, Scandinavia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Knapweed Gall Weevil
A weevil that induces galls in knapweed flower heads. Larvae develop inside the enlarged flower buds. Used in biological control of invasive knapweeds in North America.
Did You Know?
Released in North America as biocontrol for invasive spotted knapweed, which costs ranchers millions annually.
Alpine Blue
A small, silvery-blue butterfly found only in high alpine grasslands. Males have pale blue uppersides while females are brownish.
Did You Know?
It is restricted to a narrow altitudinal band and rarely descends below 1800 meters.