Aspidapion radiolus

2.7 to 3 mm. Head and pronotum black with weak metallic elytra. The rostrum is around 1.25x longer than the pronotum. There is no deep longitudinal impression on the frons (as found in A. aenum). The scutellum is a key character having a pair of raised bosses at the base and a raised tip. Only Aspidapion soror shares this feature and that species is only found on Marsh Mallow.

A. aenum has a deep longitudinal groove on the frons

A. soror has a rostrum the same length as the pronotum and is generally only found on Marsh Mallow.

• 2.7-3.1mm
• Tarsal claws toothed
• 2 bumps (bosses) at base of scutellum + apically raised
• Head, pronotum black
• Elytra weakly metallic
• No furrow on frons
• Male: fore tibia with apical tooth. Female: unarmed
• Rostrum longer than pronotum (x1.25)

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.

Found on plants of the Mallow family including Hollyhocks.

From May onwards peaking in mid September.

A locally common and often abundant species throughout England and Wales becoming less common further north into Scotland.

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland. There were a total of 15 VC55 records for this species up to March 2015.