<i>Sitona lepidus</i>Gyllenhal (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a potential clover pest new to New Zealand

Abstract

Sitona lepidus Gyllenhal (syn. S. flavescens (Marsham)) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a potential legume pest species new to New Zealand, is reported from near Hamilton. A key is provided to distinguish S. lepidus from S. discoideus Gyllenhal, a lucerne pest already established in New Zealand. Information is given on the distribution of S. lepidus in New Zealand and overseas, the biology and life cycle, mostly derived from the literature, and potential pest status and control.