Cotton boll weevil overwinters as:

The correct answer is that the cotton boll weevil overwinters as an adult. This stage is crucial for its survival during the colder months, as adult weevils are typically capable of finding shelter in various habitats, such as under debris or in cracks of buildings. This adaptation allows them to withstand harsh environmental conditions while they wait for warmer weather to emerge and start their reproductive cycle.

In contrast, other life stages such as eggs, pupa, or larva do not have the same resilience to cold weather. Eggs need warm conditions to develop, while pupa and larvae are also vulnerable to extreme temperatures. The adult stage provides a unique advantage because they can enter a state of diapause, essentially pausing their metabolic processes until suitable conditions arise in spring. Understanding the overwintering habits of the cotton boll weevil is essential for implementing effective pest management strategies.