Loosestrife Weevil

Loosestrife Weevil - Nanophyes marmoratus

Description

A tiny weevil 1.5 to 2.5 mm. Body black with variable yellow or cream marking to the elytra; these vary in intensity and size and specimens may be entirely pale over the apical two-thirds or, conversely, entirely black.

Identification difficulty

for well-marked specimens

Recording advice

It may be possible to identify this species from the elytral markings if they are clear, otherwise, 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.

Habitat

Riverbanks, water margins and other wet places where Purple-loosestrife occurs.

When to see it

Active from April or May and becoming most numerous around August into late summer.

Life History

Strongly associated with Purple-loosestrife.

UK Status

In the U.K. it occurs throughout England and Wales but is not well recorded in the north east.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

All NatureSpot records