Perapion hydrolapathi

This record describes Perapion hydrolapathi (species). Recorded family: Apionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

Perapion hydrolapathi - Perapion hydrolapathi

Feature	Description
Additional details	2.6-3.2mm.
Elytra	Elytra usually dull metallic blue, green or brassy, otherwise all black. Antennal segment 2 wider than segment 3 (feature of the genus).
Pronotum	Pronotum quadrate and barrel-shaped. Finely pubescent. Rostrum about as long as the head. Metasternal disc and sternites 1 and 2 with only sparse and fine punctuation. It is very similar to P. violaceum and detailed examination is necessary to determine the species. P. violaceum has a rostrum slightly longer than the head. The metasternal disc and sternite 1 and 2 are coarsely and densely punctate. 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. Fairly frequent and widespread, particularly in the southern half of Britain.

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Family: Apionidae
Genus: Perapion

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

Areas containing dock.

Seasonal Activity

Spring to autumn.

Additional species information

Recorded status

Fairly frequent and widespread, particularly in the southern half of Britain.

About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group

Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Perapion hydrolapathi. 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.

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