Oak Leaf-roller
Attelabus nitens
This record describes Attelabus nitens (species). Recorded family: Attelabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a distinctive reddish brown coloured weevil with a black head. The males measure about 5 mm in length, but the females are larger, at around 7 to 8 mm. This species is relatively easy to identify and is unlikely to be confused with anything else. However a photo is required to confirm your record. Often found in woodland on Oak, but also on other trees such as Beech and Birch. The single egg is laid near the edge of a leaf; the leaf is cut and rolled up to protect the developing egg. Widespread in England and Wales, but not particularly common. No additional images available for this species.
Wikipedia reference for Attelabus nitens: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attelabus_nitens.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Attelabidae
- Genus
- Attelabus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found in woodland on Oak, but also on other trees such as Beech and Birch.
Seasonal Activity
May to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The single egg is laid near the edge of a leaf; the leaf is cut and rolled up to protect the developing egg.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England and Wales, but not particularly common.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Attelabus nitens. 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 Oak Leaf-roller (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Oak Leaf-roller
What is Oak Leaf-roller?
Oak Leaf-roller (Attelabus nitens) is a species in the family Attelabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Oak Leaf-roller found?
Habitat: Often found in woodland on Oak, but also on other trees such as Beech and Birch.
When is Oak Leaf-roller active?
Oak Leaf-roller: seasonal activity - May to September..
What is the life cycle of a Oak Leaf-roller?
The single egg is laid near the edge of a leaf; the leaf is cut and rolled up to protect the developing egg.