Meligethes atratus

Length 2.5 to 3.8 mm. Black with pale brown legs and antennae (except for the dark club) and with pale pronotal and elytral margins. It lacks striae on the elytra but does have a groove running down each elytron from behind the humerus (sub-humeral depression). The pronotum has fine punctuation and is smooth between the punctures.

M. flavimanus is very similar but is reticulate between the pronotal punctures (smooth in M. atratus).

• 2.3-4.2mm
• Black with paler pronotal & elytral margins
• Legs + antennae yellow-brown (club dark)
• Half round scutellum
• Finely punctate on pronotum and smooth between punctures
• Subhumeral depression (groove) on elytra

Unless identified by a recognised expert, photographic evidence is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used. Note the beetle's size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed.

Frequents flower meadows and hedgerows with blossom.

Spring and summer.

Develops in the flowers of roses.

Widespread in the southern half of Britain.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.