Bruchus loti
This record describes Bruchus loti (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
1.7 to 2.5 mm. A grey seed eating leaf beetle. The basal part of the antenna is pale brown as is most of the foreleg. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. A variety of open habitats and grassy places. March to November with a peak in May and June. Widespread in the southern half of Britain, less frequent elsewhere.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Bruchinae
- Tribe
- Bruchini
- Genus
- Bruchus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A variety of open habitats and grassy places.
Seasonal Activity
March to November with a peak in May and June.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain, less frequent elsewhere.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Bruchus loti. 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 Bruchus loti (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Bruchus loti
What is Bruchus loti?
Bruchus loti is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Bruchus loti found?
Habitat: A variety of open habitats and grassy places.
When is Bruchus loti active?
Bruchus loti: seasonal activity - March to November with a peak in May and June..