Length is about 6 mm. The elytra have a green iridescent sheen and are studded by tiny holes. The 'head' is red.

The two species Oulema duftschmidi and O. melanopus are almost impossible to separate without detailed examination.  If that detailed examination has not taken place records should be submitted as O. duftschmidi/melanopus agg.

Only specimens examined in detail by someone with suitable expertise should be recorded as Oulema duftschmidi s.s. any others should be recorded as O. duftschmidi/melanopus agg.

Feeds on grasses and cereal crops.

Late Spring to early Autumn.

Adults and larvae both feed on leaves of cereal crops and may become a pest.

True status is difficult to determine due to difficult of identification.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.