Oxystoma cerdo
This record describes Oxystoma cerdo (species). Recorded family: Apionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small (2.4 to 3 mm) dark grey 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. It has been recorded from woodland rides, grassland, hedgerows, floodplain fens and road-side verges where vetches occur. The species is associated with Vetches (Vicia species), particularly Tufted Vetch Vicia cracca and the larvae occur in the pods. This weevil is widespread but local in the Midlands and northern England, and also recorded in southern and eastern England. 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
- Oxystomatini
- Genus
- Oxystoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It has been recorded from woodland rides, grassland, hedgerows, floodplain fens and road-side verges where vetches occur.
Seasonal Activity
May to September/October
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The species is associated with Vetches (Vicia species), particularly Tufted Vetch Vicia cracca and the larvae occur in the pods.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This weevil is widespread but local in the Midlands and northern England, and also recorded in southern and eastern England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Oxystoma cerdo. 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 Oxystoma cerdo (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Oxystoma cerdo
What is Oxystoma cerdo?
Oxystoma cerdo is a species in the family Apionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Oxystoma cerdo found?
Habitat: It has been recorded from woodland rides, grassland, hedgerows, floodplain fens and road-side verges where vetches occur.
When is Oxystoma cerdo active?
Oxystoma cerdo: seasonal activity - May to September/October.
What is the life cycle of a Oxystoma cerdo?
The species is associated with Vetches (Vicia species), particularly Tufted Vetch Vicia cracca and the larvae occur in the pods.