Great Mullein Weevil vs Common Sun Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Great Mullein Weevil | Common Sun Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cionus thapsus | Elaphrus cupreus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Curculionidae | Carabidae |
| Size | 3-4.5 mm | 7-10 mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, northern Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Great Mullein Weevil
A small rounded weevil found exclusively on great mullein plants. Similar to the figwort weevil but associated with different host plants. Larvae are external feeders in mucous cocoons.
Did You Know?
Each larva lives inside its own slimy mucous cocoon attached to the mullein leaf surface.
Common Sun Beetle
A small, brilliantly metallic copper-green beetle with distinctive eye-like pits on its elytra. It runs rapidly on wet mud and is a visual hunter of springtails.
Did You Know?
The peculiar mirror-like pits on its elytra are thought to function as light-reflecting structures that may confuse predators or aid in thermoregulation.