Pachyrhinus lethierryi
This record describes Pachyrhinus lethierryi (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
3.6 - 4.5mm. Usually bright green due to oval scales and with a domed head and wide-set eyes. It has a bare ridge across the rostrum between the eyes. Variety lostiae has a differently coloured head due to golden or pinkish scales. It is an infrasubspecific variety (i.e. one that has no real populational meaning) and as such it is not regulated by the ICZN (Zoological Nomenclature) code. There are many other broad-nosed weevils that are of similar size with green scales (Phyllobius, Polydrusus), however the domed head and bare ridge on the rostrum between the eyes and diagnostic of Pachyrhinus. 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. Often found around evergreens of the Cypress fir family particularly Leyland Cypress, (Cupressus x leylandii) , and therefore often turns up in gardens and parks where these are present. Pachyrhinus lethierryi was first found in the UK in 2003 and has spread rapidly north since.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Curculionidae
- Genus
- Pachyrhinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found around evergreens of the Cypress fir family particularly Leyland Cypress, (Cupressus x leylandii) , and therefore often turns up in gardens and parks where these are present.
Seasonal Activity
Spring and summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Pachyrhinus lethierryi was first found in the UK in 2003 and has spread rapidly north since.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pachyrhinus lethierryi. 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 Pachyrhinus lethierryi (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pachyrhinus lethierryi
What is Pachyrhinus lethierryi?
Pachyrhinus lethierryi is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Pachyrhinus lethierryi found?
Habitat: Often found around evergreens of the Cypress fir family particularly Leyland Cypress, (Cupressus x leylandii) , and therefore often turns up in gardens and parks where these are present.
When is Pachyrhinus lethierryi active?
Pachyrhinus lethierryi: seasonal activity - Spring and summer..