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 |