Mustard Beetle vs Black Vine Weevil

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mustard Beetle Black Vine Weevil
Scientific Name Phaedon cochleariae Otiorhynchus sulcatus
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Curculionidae
Size 3-4 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Farmland Gardens
Diet Herbivores Root Feeders
Regions Europe Europe, introduced worldwide
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Mustard Beetle

A small metallic blue-black beetle that feeds on watercress, mustard and other crucifers. Both adults and larvae damage crops. Common in damp habitats near streams.

💡

Did You Know?

Commercial watercress growers regard this tiny beetle as one of their most persistent pest problems.

Black Vine Weevil

A dull black, flightless weevil that is a serious pest of ornamental plants. Adults feed at night, leaving characteristic notches on leaf margins.

💡

Did You Know?

Nearly all individuals are female, reproducing by parthenogenesis without mating.