Grammoptera ruficornis
This record describes Grammoptera ruficornis (species). Recorded family: Cerambycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
3-7mm - one of our smallest longhorn beetles. It is brownish or dark grey with silky hairs on the wing cases, giving it a sheen. It has long red/black banded antennae, where the 2nd segment is elongate - features which distinguish it from the other two Grammoptera species found in Britain. All three have bulbous femora (top segment of the leg). The other two Grammoptera species are both rare. G. abdominalis is larger and lacks the elongate 2nd antennal segment and also has uniformly dark antennae. G. ustulata is similar to abdominalis but usually appears more golden due to the pale hairs on its elytra. Common on flowers especially Hawthorn and Hogweed and sometimes in well wooded areas. Larvae feed on wood of dead twigs. Adults feed on nectar and pollen of flowers. Common and widespread in England and Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Cerambycidae
- Genus
- Grammoptera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Common on flowers especially Hawthorn and Hogweed and sometimes in well wooded areas.
Seasonal Activity
Early summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae feed on wood of dead twigs. Adults feed on nectar and pollen of flowers.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Grammoptera ruficornis. 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 Grammoptera ruficornis (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Grammoptera ruficornis
What is Grammoptera ruficornis?
Grammoptera ruficornis is a species in the family Cerambycidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Grammoptera ruficornis found?
Habitat: Common on flowers especially Hawthorn and Hogweed and sometimes in well wooded areas.
When is Grammoptera ruficornis active?
Grammoptera ruficornis: seasonal activity - Early summer..
What is the life cycle of a Grammoptera ruficornis?
Larvae feed on wood of dead twigs. Adults feed on nectar and pollen of flowers.