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The female usually lays its eggs in the
storage roots just underneath the
skin or epidermis. But if the storage roots cannot be reached,
the female will lay eggs in the old portion of vines. A female
can lay up to 200 eggs in her lifetime. |
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Tiny grubs hatch from eggs. These grubs
will significantly damage roots. Their feeding tunnels become
filled with frass, creating a terpene odor. Slightly damaged
roots may be unfit for human consumption, and even at times,
for livestock. |
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In young plants where storage roots are not
yet being formed, grubs emerging from eggs laid in the vine
will attack the vines. This will weaken vines and reduce
yields, especially if the weevil infestation occurs soon after
planting. |
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Grubs will feed for 25-35 days. They then
rest in feeding areas as pupae for 6-8 days. Finally, they emerge
as adult weevils. Adults
will feed on storage roots, creating minor scars (as shown here).
Adults can live for up to 3 months. |
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Besides sweet potato, this pest will
feed on morning glory. Morning glory belongs to the same
family as sweet potato (Convulvulaceae).
Given a choice, however, weevil larvae
prefer to feed on sweet potato roots rather than inside the woody
stems of morning glory.
Let's discuss control strategies .... |
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