Epitrix cucumeris

Definition

A species of flea beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) native to North America and a major pest of cultivated potato (Solanum tuberosum). Adults feed on foliage, producing characteristic pitting and shot-hole damage, while larvae mine in roots and tubers, creating shallow tunnels that reduce marketability. The species is one of several Epitrix species known collectively as potato flea beetles, distinguished by its small size (1.5–2 mm), enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping, and dark bronze to black coloration.

Etymology

Example

In the Columbia Basin potato-growing region, Epitrix cucumeris populations are monitored using yellow sticky traps placed at field margins, with economic thresholds triggering insecticide applications when adult counts exceed 50 per trap per week during early tuber formation.

Synonyms

• potato flea beetle

Related Terms

• Epitrix tuberis
• flea beetle
• Chrysomelidae
• root maggot
• shot-hole damage
• Integrated Pest Management

Usage Notes

The common name "potato flea beetle" is shared with congeners including E. tuberis (western potato flea beetle) and E. subcrinita; precise identification requires examination of male genitalia or elytral punctation patterns. In eastern North America, E. cucumeris is often the dominant Epitrix species in potato agroecosystems, whereas E. tuberis predominates in western regions. The species was formerly placed in genus Altica before transfer to Epitrix.