Barynotus moerens
This record describes Barynotus moerens (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This large light brown weevil is one of the more distinctive. Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features. Also state the beetle's size in the comments box. Usually found in wooded areas containing its food plant Dog's Mercury. It is associated with Dog's Mercury upon which it feeds. Its larvae feed on the plant's roots. Reasonably frequent in England and Wales. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Entiminae
- Tribe
- Geonemini
- Genus
- Barynotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found in wooded areas containing its food plant Dog's Mercury.
Seasonal Activity
May is a peak month.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It is associated with Dog's Mercury upon which it feeds. Its larvae feed on the plant's roots.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Reasonably frequent in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Barynotus moerens. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Barynotus moerens (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Barynotus moerens
What is Barynotus moerens?
Barynotus moerens is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Barynotus moerens found?
Habitat: Usually found in wooded areas containing its food plant Dog's Mercury.
When is Barynotus moerens active?
Barynotus moerens: seasonal activity - May is a peak month..
What is the life cycle of a Barynotus moerens?
It is associated with Dog's Mercury upon which it feeds. Its larvae feed on the plant's roots.