Microplontus campestris
This record describes Microplontus campestris (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
2.2-3.1mm. A small, light coloured weevil with distinctive markings on both the pronotum and elytra. Found on Ox-eye Daisy.. 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. Widespread in England and Wales but thinly scattered.
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
- Microplontus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Wherever Oxeye Daisy is found.
Seasonal Activity
Spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Associated with Oxeye Daisy.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales but thinly scattered.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Microplontus campestris. 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 Microplontus campestris (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Microplontus campestris
What is Microplontus campestris?
Microplontus campestris is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Microplontus campestris found?
Habitat: Wherever Oxeye Daisy is found.
When is Microplontus campestris active?
Microplontus campestris: seasonal activity - Spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Microplontus campestris?
Associated with Oxeye Daisy.