Cossonus linearis
This record describes Cossonus linearis (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The weevil is 4 to 6 mm in length with a very flat and elongate body, dark brown punctate elytra and blackish pronotum. Its legs are dark red and the antennae are short and bent. Its pronotum is quite rectangular viewed from above and slightly narrower than the elytra. 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. Found in woodland and sometimes near rivers. Its larvae rather live in the bark of willow or poplar , but also in the other trees. Adults feed on decaying wood. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Curculionidae
- Genus
- Cossonus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in woodland and sometimes near rivers.
Seasonal Activity
April to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Its larvae rather live in the bark of willow or poplar , but also in the other trees. Adults feed on decaying wood.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Classed as Nationally Notable A.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cossonus linearis. 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 Cossonus linearis (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cossonus linearis
What is Cossonus linearis?
Cossonus linearis is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Cossonus linearis?
with a very flat and elongate body, dark brown punctate elytra and blackish pronotum. Its legs are dark red and the antennae are short and bent. Its pronotum is quite rectangular viewed from above and slightly narrower than the elytra.
Where is Cossonus linearis found?
Habitat: Found in woodland and sometimes near rivers.
When is Cossonus linearis active?
Cossonus linearis: seasonal activity - April to September..
What is the life cycle of a Cossonus linearis?
Its larvae rather live in the bark of willow or poplar , but also in the other trees. Adults feed on decaying wood.