Exapion fuscirostre
This record describes Exapion fuscirostre (species). Recorded family: Apionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (2 to 3 mm) grey-brown weevil with a long snout and light brown legs. 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. Please state the host plant on which the species was found. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed. Strongly associated with Broom and usually recorded by beating or sweeping Broom. The adult feeds on new growth at the tips of stems of Broom. The adult female lays eggs inside the plant's seed pod, where the larvae hatch and consume the seeds over a period of a few weeks. Widespread in the southern half of Britain but rather local. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Apionidae (Primitive Weevils)
- Subfamily
- Apioninae
- Tribe
- Aspidapiini
- Genus
- Exapion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Strongly associated with Broom and usually recorded by beating or sweeping Broom.
Seasonal Activity
April to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The adult feeds on new growth at the tips of stems of Broom. The adult female lays eggs inside the plant's seed pod, where the larvae hatch and consume the seeds over a period of a few weeks.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain but rather local.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Exapion fuscirostre. 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 Exapion fuscirostre (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Exapion fuscirostre
What is Exapion fuscirostre?
Exapion fuscirostre is a species in the family Apionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Exapion fuscirostre found?
Habitat: Strongly associated with Broom and usually recorded by beating or sweeping Broom.
When is Exapion fuscirostre active?
Exapion fuscirostre: seasonal activity - April to September..
What is the life cycle of a Exapion fuscirostre?
The adult feeds on new growth at the tips of stems of Broom. The adult female lays eggs inside the plant's seed pod, where the larvae hatch and consume the seeds over a period of a few weeks.