Polydrusus sericeus, is a conspicuous, and beautiful iridescent green weevil that is native to Europe. It has established in hardwood forests of Michigan and Wisconsin. The weevils are root feeders as larvae. They emerge in the spring and are found on a variety of hardwood trees during the spring and summer. The weevils have been the subject of numerous recent studies to determine their impact on the forests, their feeding preferences and host range, and their performance on different plant species.
These weevils are common in Michigan and are considered invasive because they displace native species. Their effect on ecology of our forests is not apparent at this time. Economic damage from this species has not yet been documented, but that is difficult to assess. Humans are having effects on our ecosystems by transporting insects and other living organisms from their native range to their new homes. These effects are not always devastating like emerald ash borer. However, a series of small effects from numerous invasives can create a large overall effect. To minimize impacts on our ecosystem, it is important to minimize invasive species importations.
I found this weevil at Lake Lewanau.
Immigrant Green Weevil
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