ID Guide - Phyllobius weevils

    Phyllobius is a genus of broad-nosed weevils that are commonly found on low herbage and in trees during spring and summer. Most are covered in metallic green scales that give them a very attractive appearance. There are 9 species and most look similar but they can be separated by carefully comparing the range of features shown in the table below, either under a binocular microscope or with a x20 hand-lens.

    Phyllobius weevils can be distinguished from the similar genus Polydrusus by looking where the antennae emerge from the rostrum. In Phyllobius the antennae emerge from the top whilst in Polydrusus they are positioned at the side. When looking directly down on the beetle it is usually clear to see.

      toothed front femora scales femora colour tibiae elytral slope hairy
    Phyllobius argentatus yes round pale     fine
    Phyllobius maculicornus yes elongate dark     fine
    Phyllobius glaucus yes pointed pale     no
    Phyllobius pyri yes elongate dark ridged   no
    Phyllobius oblongus yes none pale     yes
    Phyllobius pomaceus yes oval dark     no
    Phyllobius viridicollis no few dark     no
    Phyllobius roboretanus no round dark   steep no
    Phyllobius virideaeris no round dark   shallow no