White Clover Seed Weevil - Protapion fulvipes

This is a very small (1.8 to 2.2 mm) weevil. It is shining dark grey to black, very convex and slender. Rostrum long and cylindrical with antennae inserted midway (male) or behind middle (female). The legs are mainly yellow except the tarsi (feet) which are black. The lower parts of the antennae are also yellow in colour with a club that is 3x longer than wide. The antennal segments gradually broaden towards the club.

Protapion nigritarse looks very similar but has an antennal club that is only 2x longer than wide. In addition the middle antennal segments become narrower. Usually only the club is dark.

• 1.8-2.2mm
• Dark body with all yellow legs and dark tarsi
• Antennae yellow only in the basal half
• Antennal club 3x longer than wide
• Antennal segments gradually broadening to the club.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, photographic evidence is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. Ideally a detailed photo of the antennae should be attached. 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.

Associated with clover, but found in almost any well vegetated environment.

Mainly spring and summer.

Larvae feed in the flower heads of clover.

This is our most common and widespread species of Apionidae, being found throughout the British Isles including the Scottish islands.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland. There were a total of 70 VC55 records for this species up to March 2015.