Hadroplontus litura
This record describes Hadroplontus litura (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
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. Grassy areas where the foodplant Creeping Thistle grows. Peak time is probably around July and August. The larvae mine the rosettes of Creeping Thistle, later feeding in the stems. Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Ceutorhynchinae
- Tribe
- Ceutorhynchini
- Genus
- Hadroplontus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grassy areas where the foodplant Creeping Thistle grows.
Seasonal Activity
Peak time is probably around July and August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae mine the rosettes of Creeping Thistle, later feeding in the stems.
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 Hadroplontus litura. 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 Hadroplontus litura (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hadroplontus litura
What is Hadroplontus litura?
Hadroplontus litura is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hadroplontus litura?
about 3 mm.
Where is Hadroplontus litura found?
Habitat: Grassy areas where the foodplant Creeping Thistle grows.
When is Hadroplontus litura active?
Hadroplontus litura: seasonal activity - Peak time is probably around July and August..
What is the life cycle of a Hadroplontus litura?
The larvae mine the rosettes of Creeping Thistle, later feeding in the stems.