| Publication Type: | Journal Article |
| : | 2008 |
| Authors: | J. Robinson, E. Hancock G. |
| Journal: | Entomologist's Monthly Magazine |
| Volume: | 144 |
| Pagination: | 211-216 |
| Date Published: | October-December |
| Type of Article: | Article |
| : | 0013-8908 |
| : | An accurate characterisation of Ceutorhynchus insularis Dieckmann, an endangered weevil from St Kilda, is essential for appropriate conservation strategies to be developed. Previous information was based on a very small sample of beetles and did not reflect the full phenotypic range. Larvae were collected in 2005 and reared to adults so that a better description could be obtained to compare with the closely related and widespread C. contractus (Marsham). Apart from their geographic origin, adults can be distinguished by short wing length and a frequency of paler colour forms. The principal colour form is a uniform black. Size range is greater than the mainland species populations. These traits are products of the population's isolation. These observations suggest a number of interesting research questions that could be investigated on St Kilda in relation to this species. |