Description

Over all length 2.5 - 3mm. There are two very similar British species in this genus, Sphaeroderma rubidum and S. testaceum. Both are a red/brown colour with S. rubidum having slightly shorter, rounder elytra, with S. testaceum being more oval. They have swollen hind femora and can spring suddenly away like Flea beetles.

Habitat

Found on a variety of thistle species where the adults bite holes out of the leaves. The larvae are leaf miners of Knapweeds Centaurea spp.

Status and distribution

Widely distributed and fairly common in England and Wales, less common in Scotland. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

All year.