Polydrusus formosus
This record describes Polydrusus formosus (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 5 to 6 mm. A bright metallic green weevil with round scales, a dark club to the pale antennae and a short groove between the eyes. It does not have any setae (bristles). It has conspicuous striae on the elytra. The scales can wear off to reveal the dark body beneath. 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. Found on various broadleaved trees and bushes. Adults of this beetle lay their eggs in the bark or leaves of the host-plants. The soil inhabiting larvae grow up to 7 millimetres long feeding on juicy plant roots. In Autumn their development is complete. They overwinter and pupate in Spring. Widespread in England but previously very scarce, it is now undergoing an increase in numbers.
Wikipedia reference for Polydrusus formosus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polydrusus_formosus.
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
Found on various broadleaved trees and bushes.
Seasonal Activity
April to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Adults of this beetle lay their eggs in the bark or leaves of the host-plants. The soil inhabiting larvae grow up to 7 millimetres long feeding on juicy plant roots. In Autumn their development is complete. They overwinter and pupate in Spring.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England but previously very scarce, it is now undergoing an increase in numbers.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Polydrusus formosus. 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 formosus (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Polydrusus formosus
What is Polydrusus formosus?
Polydrusus formosus is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Polydrusus formosus?
5 to 6 mm. A bright metallic green weevil with round scales, a dark club to the pale antennae and a short groove between the eyes. It does not have any setae (bristles). It has conspicuous striae on the elytra. The scales can wear off to reveal the dark body beneath.
Where is Polydrusus formosus found?
Habitat: Found on various broadleaved trees and bushes.
When is Polydrusus formosus active?
Polydrusus formosus: seasonal activity - April to August..
What is the life cycle of a Polydrusus formosus?
Adults of this beetle lay their eggs in the bark or leaves of the host-plants. The soil inhabiting larvae grow up to 7 millimetres long feeding on juicy plant roots. In Autumn their development is complete. They overwinter and pupate in Spring.