Loosestrife Weevil
Nanophyes marmoratus
This record describes Nanophyes marmoratus (species). Recorded family: Nanophyidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A tiny weevil 1.5 to 2.5 mm. Body black with variable yellow or cream marking to the elytra; these vary in intensity and size and specimens may be entirely pale over the apical two-thirds or, conversely, entirely black. It may be possible to identify this species from the elytral markings if they are clear, otherwise, 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. Riverbanks, water margins and other wet places where Purple-loosestrife occurs. Active from April or May and becoming most numerous around August into late summer. Strongly associated with Purple-loosestrife. In the U.K. it occurs throughout England and Wales but is not well recorded in the north east.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Nanophyidae (Primitive Weevils)
- Subfamily
- Nanophyinae
- Genus
- Nanophyes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Riverbanks, water margins and other wet places where Purple-loosestrife occurs.
Seasonal Activity
Active from April or May and becoming most numerous around August into late summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Strongly associated with Purple-loosestrife.
Additional species information
Recorded status
In the U.K. it occurs throughout England and Wales but is not well recorded in the north east.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nanophyes marmoratus. 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 Loosestrife Weevil (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Loosestrife Weevil
What is Loosestrife Weevil?
Loosestrife Weevil (Nanophyes marmoratus) is a species in the family Nanophyidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Loosestrife Weevil?
and specimens may be entirely pale over the apical two-thirds or, conversely, entirely black.
Where is Loosestrife Weevil found?
Habitat: Riverbanks, water margins and other wet places where Purple-loosestrife occurs.
When is Loosestrife Weevil active?
Loosestrife Weevil: seasonal activity - Active from April or May and becoming most numerous around August into late summer..
What is the life cycle of a Loosestrife Weevil?
Strongly associated with Purple-loosestrife.