Apion rubens

A small (2 to 3 mm) reddish coloured weevil. The larvae mine the leaves of Sheep's Sorrel (Rumex acetosella) causing galls to form as swellings along the mid rib or petiole. These are often reddish or sometimes yellow in colour. (see further information below).

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.

Areas where Sheep's Sorrel is present.

Spring to Autumn.

Larvae mine the leaves of Sheep’s Sorrel.

Widespread but infrequent in Britain.

Rare in Leicestershire and Rutland. There were only 3 VC55 records for this species up to March 2015 - two identified from galls.

The revised British Plant Galls Keys indicates that these galls are not well known and identification using the keys should be verified by rearing and identifying the adults.This is rarely done, so although we have found no other likely causer for the galls illustrated, we wish to point out that they have not been proven by rearing through to the adult stage.