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