Black spined weevil facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Scolopterus penicillatus |
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Scolopterus
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S. penicillatus
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| Scolopterus penicillatus White, 1846
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The Scolopterus penicillatus, also known as the black spined weevil, is a special type of beetle. It lives only in New Zealand, which means it is endemic to that country. This shiny black beetle has a purplish tint. It looks a lot like its close relative, the Scolopterus tetracanthus.
You can tell the black spined weevil apart from its cousin by looking at the spines on its shoulders. The spines on the S. penicillatus are not as sharp or pointed. This beetle is found all over New Zealand.
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Meet the Black Spined Weevil
The black spined weevil is a fascinating insect. It belongs to a group of beetles called weevils. Weevils are known for their long snouts. This beetle was first described by a scientist named Adam White in 1846.
What Does It Look Like?
The black spined weevil is mostly black. It has a shiny surface that can sometimes look a bit purple. It is a small beetle, but its unique spines make it stand out. These spines are on its "shoulders," which are actually part of its hard outer shell.
Where Does It Live?
This weevil lives all over New Zealand. It prefers areas where native plants grow. You can often find it during the summer months. People look for it by gently shaking or "beating" native flowering plants. The beetles then fall onto a sheet below.
Adult black spined weevils have been found on plants like Hedychium gardnerianum. They have also been seen in the flowers of Helichrysum lanceolatum. These plants provide food and shelter for the adult beetles.
The Weevil's Life Cycle
Like all insects, the black spined weevil goes through different life stages. The young weevils are called larvae. These larvae grow inside the bark of certain trees. They especially like the recently dead bark of different types of Pseudopanax trees. This is where they develop and grow before becoming adult beetles.
