Protapion trifolii
This record describes Protapion trifolii (species). Recorded family: Apionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body | Body length, 1.7 to 2.1 mm, not including the head. |
| Body | Body, antennae, and tarsi are black. Fore coxae and trochanters are reddish or dark-reddish, distinctly darker than femora. Femora yellow-reddish. Mid and hind tibiae are black or dark-brown; fore tibia is lighter. There are other quite similar species and identification under magnification is necessary. 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. Most records seem to come from the southern half of Britain although it is recorded from as far north as the Scottish Islands. |
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Apionidae
- Genus
- Protapion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grassland where clover is present.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly found from April to September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Most records seem to come from the southern half of Britain although it is recorded from as far north as the Scottish Islands.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Protapion trifolii. 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 Protapion trifolii (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Protapion trifolii
What is Protapion trifolii?
Protapion trifolii is a species in the family Apionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Protapion trifolii found?
Habitat: Grassland where clover is present.
When is Protapion trifolii active?
Protapion trifolii: seasonal activity - Mainly found from April to September..