Great Mullein Weevil vs Shaggy Rove Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Great Mullein Weevil Shaggy Rove Beetle
Scientific Name Cionus thapsus Emus hirtus
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Curculionidae Staphylinidae
Size 3-4.5 mm 18-28 mm
Habitat Grasslands Farmland
Diet Herbivores Dung Feeders
Regions Europe Europe, Western 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.

Shaggy Rove Beetle

A spectacular, large rove beetle covered in dense black and yellow fur-like pubescence, resembling a bumblebee. It is associated with dung and is one of Europe's most visually striking beetles.

💡

Did You Know?

This beetle's bumblebee-like appearance is thought to be a form of Batesian mimicry, deterring predators that have learned to avoid stinging bumblebees.