Polydrusus cervinus
This record describes Polydrusus cervinus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Polydrusus weevils are very similar to the Phyllobius group, but the main difference between the two is that the antennal insertions are on the side of the rostrum and not visible from above. Polydrusus cervinus is a rather pale golden green weevil when fresh but appears blacker as scales become detached. The tooth on the front femur helps to distinguish P. cervinus from some other species in the genus. P. pilosus is very similar but much scarcer and usually found in north. 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. Adults feed on the leaves of various trees whilst the food plant for the larvae is Cocks-foot Grass. Widespread and fairly common in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Entiminae
- Tribe
- Polydrusini
- Genus
- Polydrusus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In the branches of various trees.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Adults feed on the leaves of various trees whilst the food plant for the larvae is Cocks-foot Grass.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly common in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Polydrusus cervinus. 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 Polydrusus cervinus (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Polydrusus cervinus
What is Polydrusus cervinus?
Polydrusus cervinus is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Polydrusus cervinus found?
Habitat: In the branches of various trees.
When is Polydrusus cervinus active?
Polydrusus cervinus: seasonal activity - Mainly spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Polydrusus cervinus?
Adults feed on the leaves of various trees whilst the food plant for the larvae is Cocks-foot Grass.