Magdalis armigera
This record describes Magdalis armigera (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3 to 4.5 mm. There are rows of puncturation on the elytra which are satiny, and a slate black in colour. There are quite large forward pointing projections on the shoulders of the pronotum These are larger and more forward pointing than in any other member of the genus, and so give a good indication as to species when a specimen is examined closely. 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. Around elm, usually English Elm (Ulmus procera). From April or May to late June or early July. Mainly confined to the southern half of Britain as far north as Cumbria and North Yorkshire, very uncommon in Scotland, Wales and western England. It is usually local but where the host plant is plentiful it can be found in numbers.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Curculionidae
- Genus
- Magdalis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Around elm, usually English Elm (Ulmus procera).
Seasonal Activity
From April or May to late June or early July.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae bore into the wood of elms.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Mainly confined to the southern half of Britain as far north as Cumbria and North Yorkshire, very uncommon in Scotland, Wales and western England. It is usually local but where the host plant is plentiful it can be found in numbers.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Magdalis armigera. 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 Magdalis armigera (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Magdalis armigera
What is Magdalis armigera?
Magdalis armigera is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Magdalis armigera?
3 to 4.5 mm. There are rows of puncturation on the elytra which are satiny, and a slate black in colour. There are quite large forward pointing projections on the shoulders of the pronotum These are larger and more forward pointing than in any other member of the genus, and so give a good indication as to species when a specimen is examined closely.
Where is Magdalis armigera found?
Habitat: Around elm, usually English Elm (Ulmus procera).
When is Magdalis armigera active?
Magdalis armigera: seasonal activity - From April or May to late June or early July..
What is the life cycle of a Magdalis armigera?
The larvae bore into the wood of elms.