Rhynchophorus cruentatus

beetle

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Rhynchophorus cruentatus, commonly known as the palm weevil, is a type of beetle found in tropical America. These stout-bodied insects belong to the weevil family (Curculionidae) and are characterized by a short snout.1

The larvae of R. cruentatus are notable for their size, reaching about 5 cm (2 inches) in length, and their ability to make a clucking sound as they bore into cabbage palms. These larvae are consumed by native peoples in tropical America, prepared either fried or raw. A similar species, R. ferrugines, poses a threat to copra production in the Pacific by attacking coconut and wine palms. Other related billbug genera include Diaprepes, Rhodobaenus, Sitophilus, and Sphenophorus.1

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billbug
The larvae of R. cruentatus are about 5 cm long and make a clucking sound while boring in cabbage palms. These larvae are eaten, either fried or raw, by native peoples of tropical America. A similar species (R. ferrugines) has threatened copra (dried coconut meat) production in the…
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The larvae of R. cruentatus are about 5 cm long and make a clucking sound while boring in cabbage palms. These larvae are eaten, either fried or raw, by native peoples of tropical America. A similar species (R. ferrugines) has threatened copra (dried coconut meat) production in the…
Read More