Ophonus punctatulus

Range & Status

Formerly widespread across southern and south-eastern Britain, but has become increasingly scarce in recent years.

Regional Distribution

One old record from the Newquay area, pre-1906 (details not available).

Habitat & Ecology

A species of dry, often slightly shaded, ground with some humus and moderate vegetation cover, usually on calcareous soils. It feeds mainly on seeds.

Threats

Development of coastal habitats; coarsening of vegetation through lack of grazing and/or trampling, with consequent loss of open sandy areas; coastal protection works.

Conservation

Much of the more sensitive coastline is now protected by SSSI designations.