Clover Leaf Weevil
Hypera postica
This record describes Hypera postica (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3 to 5.5 mm. The adult is covered in cream and brown scales (covering a black body) with recumbent (leaning back) seta along the elytral intervals. The scales are bifid, divided to around two thirds their length. The pronotum is no more than 1.2x wide as long and has a central pale stripe plus pale sides. Unless identified by a recognised expert, photographic evidence is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used. Note the beetle's size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed. Where clovers are present, often on sparsely vegetated ground. Found throughout the year with a peak in spring and summer. Widespread and fairly 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
- Hyperinae
- Genus
- Hypera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Where clovers are present, often on sparsely vegetated ground.
Seasonal Activity
Found throughout the year with a peak in spring and summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hypera postica. 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 Clover Leaf Weevil (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Clover Leaf Weevil
What is Clover Leaf Weevil?
Clover Leaf Weevil (Hypera postica) is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Clover Leaf Weevil?
3 to 5.5 mm. The adult is covered in cream and brown scales (covering a black body) with recumbent (leaning back) seta along the elytral intervals. The scales are bifid, divided to around two thirds their length. The pronotum is no more than 1.2x wide as long and has a central pale stripe plus pale sides.
Where is Clover Leaf Weevil found?
Habitat: Where clovers are present, often on sparsely vegetated ground.
When is Clover Leaf Weevil active?
Clover Leaf Weevil: seasonal activity - Found throughout the year with a peak in spring and summer..