Originally from Mexico, this exotic has caused much destruction to our largest bromeliads, which take many years to reach that size. Eggs are laid on the plants and hatching larvae tunnel into the growing stem tissue, producing large holes in the base of the plant. This weevil is attacking two species of bromeliads that are on the Florida endangered plant list, the Cardinal Airplant and the Giant Airplant. Adults are black with yellow or orange bands on the wings.

Latin Name: Metamasius Callizona

Habitat:Pine Flatwoods, Oak Hammock, Swamp

Diet: Bromeliads

Species Alert! Exotic