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Defying the Curse

Paterson's Curse Crown Weevil (Mogulones larvatus). This is one from the archives but it was only today I figured out what it was, thanks to iNaturalist. Apparently this species is not native but has been introduced in parts of Australia to control the weed Paterson’s Curse (Echium plantagineum). According to this website, the larva can destroy the weed if in sufficient numbers: www.weeds.asn.au/weed-control/biological-control/rust-fun... This little one was photographed in a garden, presumably on the lookout for said weed. I think it’s cute! Happy Beautiful Bug Butt Thursday, everyone!

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Uploaded on July 20, 2022
Taken on March 15, 2021