Clover Seed Weevil
Protapion apricans
This record describes Protapion apricans (species). Recorded family: Apionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size 2.1 to 2.8 mm. A small black weevil with yellow femora and black mid + hind tibia. Most species in the genus have yellow legs, at least in part, so pay careful attention to identify all the characteristics noted in ID Checklist below. Other Protapion species. P. assimile and P. ononidis share the same coloration but they have erect (or semi-erect) hairs on the antennae. 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. March to November, but peaking May to July. Feeds on the flowers of Clover (especially Trifolium pratense). Widespread and fairly frequent especially in the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Apionidae
- Genus
- Protapion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Clover-rich meadows.
Seasonal Activity
March to November, but peaking May to July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on the flowers of Clover (especially Trifolium pratense).
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent especially in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Protapion apricans. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clover Seed Weevil
What is Clover Seed Weevil?
Clover Seed Weevil (Protapion apricans) is a species in the family Apionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Clover Seed Weevil?
2.1 to 2.8 mm. A small black weevil with yellow femora and black mid + hind tibia. Most species in the genus have yellow legs, at least in part, so pay careful attention to identify all the characteristics noted in ID Checklist below.
Where is Clover Seed Weevil found?
Habitat: Clover-rich meadows.
When is Clover Seed Weevil active?
Clover Seed Weevil: seasonal activity - March to November, but peaking May to July..
What is the life cycle of a Clover Seed Weevil?
Feeds on the flowers of Clover (especially Trifolium pratense).