Polydrusus pterygomalis
This record describes Polydrusus pterygomalis (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length about 5 mm. Another of the green arboreal weevils. The identifying features are anterior femora without teeth, upperside of elytra with round scales and with pale semi-erect setae (view from side), the head has a bulge behind the eyes and it has pale brown antennae and legs. 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. Commonly found on the leaves of broadleaved trees, but occasionally on flowers. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Curculionidae
- Genus
- Polydrusus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Commonly found on the leaves of broadleaved trees, but occasionally on flowers.
Seasonal Activity
Spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on the leaves of various trees.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Polydrusus pterygomalis. 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 pterygomalis (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Polydrusus pterygomalis
What is Polydrusus pterygomalis?
Polydrusus pterygomalis is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Polydrusus pterygomalis?
about 5 mm. Another of the green arboreal weevils. The identifying features are anterior femora without teeth, upperside of elytra with round scales and with pale semi-erect setae (view from side), the head has a bulge behind the eyes and it has pale brown antennae and legs.
Where is Polydrusus pterygomalis found?
Habitat: Commonly found on the leaves of broadleaved trees, but occasionally on flowers.
When is Polydrusus pterygomalis active?
Polydrusus pterygomalis: seasonal activity - Spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Polydrusus pterygomalis?
Feeds on the leaves of various trees.