Bruchus loti

Paykull, 1800

Bruchus loti is a seed-feeding in the Chrysomelidae that primarily attacks seeds of Lathyrus japonicus, a legume . Its larvae bore through hard seed coats to consume seed contents, a that can enhance germination by breaking seed dormancy. However, heavy consumption by unparasitised larvae reduces seed survival. The species is subject to by at least two idiobiont species, Pteromalus sp. and Dinarmus sp., which indirectly benefit the plant by reducing larval feeding intensity and improving seed germination outcomes.

Bruchus loti by (c) anonymous, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.

Bruchus loti by (c) Paul Cook, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Paul Cook. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Bruchus loti: /ˈbruː.kʊs ˈloʊ.taɪ/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Distribution

Belgium (confirmed present); broader distribution likely corresponds to that of its plant Lathyrus japonicus, which occurs in coastal and dune across northern Europe and Asia.

Diet

Seeds of Lathyrus japonicus; larvae bore through hard seed coats and consume internal seed contents.

Host Associations

Lathyrus japonicus - primary plant (seed resource)Legume whose seeds are the main food source
Pteromalus sp. - Idiobiont that parasitises larvae; parasitised larvae consume less seed material
Dinarmus sp. - Idiobiont that parasitises larvae

Behavior

Larvae bore through hard seed coats, which mechanically breaks seed dormancy and can enhance germination percentage. Parasitised larvae exhibit reduced feeding intensity compared to unparasitised larvae. The interaction creates a complex tri-trophic relationship where attack indirectly benefits plant reproductive success.

Ecological Role

Seed that facilitates germination of hard-seeded legumes through physical scarification of seed coats. -mediated mortality of larvae contributes positively to plant by preventing excessive seed consumption and improving germination success of remaining seeds.