Meadow Cranesbill Weevil
Zacladus geranii
This record describes Zacladus geranii (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
2.4 to 3.3 mm in length and found on large flowered geraniums, particularly Meadow Cranesbill. It is black with white/grey oval scales on the underside. The pronotum is coasely punctuated and forms a deep collar behind the head and also has a pair of short, sharp teeth either side of the central disc. Zacladus exiguus is very similar, but is only found on small flowered Geranium species, and is much rarer. 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. On Meadow Cranes-bill and Bloody Cranes-bill. Widespread in much of southern Britain in those areas where the food plants occur.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Curculionidae
- Genus
- Zacladus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On Meadow Cranes-bill and Bloody Cranes-bill.
Seasonal Activity
July to September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in much of southern Britain in those areas where the food plants occur.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Zacladus geranii. 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 Meadow Cranesbill Weevil (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Meadow Cranesbill Weevil
What is Meadow Cranesbill Weevil?
Meadow Cranesbill Weevil (Zacladus geranii) is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Meadow Cranesbill Weevil?
and found on large flowered geraniums, particularly Meadow Cranesbill. It is black with white/grey oval scales on the underside. The pronotum is coasely punctuated and forms a deep collar behind the head and also has a pair of short, sharp teeth either side of the central disc.
Where is Meadow Cranesbill Weevil found?
Habitat: On Meadow Cranes-bill and Bloody Cranes-bill.
When is Meadow Cranesbill Weevil active?
Meadow Cranesbill Weevil: seasonal activity - July to September..