Swollen-thighed Beetle
Oedemera nobilis
This record describes Oedemera nobilis (species). Recorded family: Oedemeridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 8 to 10mm. The green elytra (wing covers) are pointed and gape apart. The male and female of this beetle can easily be told apart, as the male has large green bulges on its femora or thighs, while the female does not. The male is unmistakeable but the female could be confused with other Oedemera species, however its size, gaping wing cases and irredescence distinguish it. Flower meadows, gardens and waste ground where they visit flowers. Widespread from southern England northwards to the Wash and north Wales, but less common further north than that.
Wikipedia reference for Oedemera nobilis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oedemera_nobilis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Oedemeridae
- Genus
- Oedemera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Flower meadows, gardens and waste ground where they visit flowers.
Seasonal Activity
April to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
This beetle is a pollen feeder.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread from southern England northwards to the Wash and north Wales, but less common further north than that.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Oedemera nobilis. 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 Swollen-thighed Beetle (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Swollen-thighed Beetle
What is Swollen-thighed Beetle?
Swollen-thighed Beetle (Oedemera nobilis) is a species in the family Oedemeridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Swollen-thighed Beetle?
8 to 10mm. The green elytra (wing covers) are pointed and gape apart. The male and female of this beetle can easily be told apart, as the male has large green bulges on its femora or thighs, while the female does not.
Where is Swollen-thighed Beetle found?
Habitat: Flower meadows, gardens and waste ground where they visit flowers.
When is Swollen-thighed Beetle active?
Swollen-thighed Beetle: seasonal activity - April to September..
What is the life cycle of a Swollen-thighed Beetle?
This beetle is a pollen feeder.