Broad Bean Beetle
Bruchus rufimanus
Description
Body length 5mm. A small, grey buff, leaf beetle marked with darker brown streaks. The front legs are reddish, the others black.
Habitat
Fields and crops. Can be a major pest of broad bean crops. First arrived in the UK in the 1990's. The adults feed on pollen and the larvae develop in the developing seeds of leguminous plants, particularly broad beans.
Status and distribution
Fairly common and widespread in the Midlands, and the south and east of England. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.
Best time to see
All year.