At the present time (May 2024) this extremely small beetle measuring
between 1.4mm and 1.8mm, has only been recorded on a couple of
occasions. Adrian Dutton found it at Gedling CP in May 2014 and it
recently turned up in a sweep net sample at Hills and Holes SSSI, Market Warsop
(Pendleton, T.) in late April 2024.
Phloeotribus rhododactylus is typically found close to its host
plants, which include both Broom Cytilus scoparius and Gorse
Ulex europaeus, the latter being plentiful at Hills and Holes.
Very likely to be more widespread, but the very small nature of this
beetle, could mean it's mistaken for a seed if the beetle remains
inactive. |
