Oedemera nobilis

Systematic position. Oedemera nobilis, commonly known as the thick-legged flower beetle, belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Oedemeridae. It is a widespread insect in Europe, easily recognized by the iridescent green color of its body and the conspicuously enlarged hind femora in males.

Host plants. The adult beetles are pollen feeders and are frequently found on various flowering plants. Their host range includes members of the Asteraceae, Apiaceae, and Rosaceae families. They are commonly observed on fruit trees, ornamental garden flowers, and wild shrubs during the blooming season.

Biology and life cycle. The life cycle comprises complete metamorphosis. Females lay eggs in decaying wood or in the stems of plants. Larvae develop within these substrates, feeding on decaying organic matter. The transformation into an adult takes place within the plant tissue or wood, after which the beetle emerges to feed on pollen and seek mates.

Nature of damage and pest status. The damage is primarily caused by adults feeding on the reproductive parts of flowers. By consuming pollen and floral tissues, they can interfere with the pollination process, potentially reducing fruit set in commercial orchards. While generally considered a minor pest, high populations can significantly damage the petals of ornamental flowers.

Control measures. Integrated pest management for Oedemera nobilis is usually not intensive. Key practices include:

• Removal of rotting wood and plant debris where larvae develop.
• Manual collection of beetles in small private gardens.
• Use of horticultural soap or biological sprays during peak activity if heavy damage to floral crops is observed.