Trichosirocalus troglodytes
This record describes Trichosirocalus troglodytes (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A very small weevil of about 3.5 mm length. It is pale brown (sometimes slightly reddish) with a few paler whitish markings. Orange-brown legs, brown body. Angular rear, patch of warts on rear of each wing-case. Erect oval scales on wing-cases. Rather large pronotum. Patterns of scales when fresh, but in many individuals these have worn away. One of our commonest weevils. 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. Fresh adults appear in mid to late summer and overwinter. Larvae develop in the flower stems of Ribwort Plantain. Common and widespread in England and Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Curculionidae
- Genus
- Trichosirocalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Where Ribwort Plantain grows.
Seasonal Activity
Fresh adults appear in mid to late summer and overwinter.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae develop in the flower stems of Ribwort Plantain.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Trichosirocalus troglodytes. 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 Trichosirocalus troglodytes (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Trichosirocalus troglodytes
What is Trichosirocalus troglodytes?
Trichosirocalus troglodytes is a species in the family Curculionidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Trichosirocalus troglodytes found?
Habitat: Where Ribwort Plantain grows.
When is Trichosirocalus troglodytes active?
Trichosirocalus troglodytes: seasonal activity - Fresh adults appear in mid to late summer and overwinter..
What is the life cycle of a Trichosirocalus troglodytes?
Larvae develop in the flower stems of Ribwort Plantain.