Omphalapion hookerorum
This record describes Omphalapion hookerorum (species). Recorded family: Apionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (1.6 to 2 mm) grey-black weevil with ribbed elytra. 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. Waste places, post industrial sites and disturbed ground where the host plants occur. Larvae feed in the flowers heads of certain Asteraceae including Stinking Chamomile, Scented Mayweed and Scentless Mayweed. Widespread in the southern half of Britain, but may be local in its distribution. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Apionidae (Primitive Weevils)
- Subfamily
- Apioninae
- Tribe
- Ceratapiini
- Genus
- Omphalapion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Waste places, post industrial sites and disturbed ground where the host plants occur.
Seasonal Activity
Peak is from May to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae feed in the flowers heads of certain Asteraceae including Stinking Chamomile, Scented Mayweed and Scentless Mayweed.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain, but may be local in its distribution.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Omphalapion hookerorum. 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 Omphalapion hookerorum (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Omphalapion hookerorum
What is Omphalapion hookerorum?
Omphalapion hookerorum is a species in the family Apionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Omphalapion hookerorum found?
Habitat: Waste places, post industrial sites and disturbed ground where the host plants occur.
When is Omphalapion hookerorum active?
Omphalapion hookerorum: seasonal activity - Peak is from May to October..
What is the life cycle of a Omphalapion hookerorum?
Larvae feed in the flowers heads of certain Asteraceae including Stinking Chamomile, Scented Mayweed and Scentless Mayweed.