Which pest is known for "skeletonizing" alfalfa leaves and is characterized by a light green color?

The alfalfa weevil is recognized for its distinctive feeding behavior known as "skeletonizing," which involves consuming the leaf tissue while leaving behind the larger veins intact. This results in a characteristic appearance where the leaf appears to be a skeleton of its former self. The larvae of the alfalfa weevil are typically light green, making them difficult to detect against the foliage of the alfalfa plants. This pest primarily targets alfalfa and can cause significant damage if not managed effectively, as it can reduce plant vigor and yield.

In contrast, cutworms generally cause different types of damage by cutting seedlings at the soil level rather than skeletonizing leaves. Mexican bean beetles primarily affect beans and are known for their yellow color and round shape, whereas bean leaf beetles also damage bean plants but do not exhibit the same feeding patterns as the alfalfa weevil. Therefore, the identification of the alfalfa weevil as the pest in question is accurate based on its specific characteristics and feeding habits.