Longhorn and Leaf Beetles

Chrysomeloidea

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chrysomeloidea: //ˌkɹaɪsəˈmɛlɔɪdiə//

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

Images

Ant-mimic Longhorned Beetle - Cyrtophorus verrucosus, G. R. Thompson Wildlife Management Area, Linden, Virginia by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Chrotoma dunniana - inat 134730577 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Icosium tomentosum atticum - inat 307779439 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Cyrtophorus Verrucosus On Leaf by Ken-ichi Ueda. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Banded Hickory Borer - Knulliana cincta (47464846322) by Christina Butler from Georgia, United States. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Geropa concolor - inat 321124657 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Chrysomeloidea is a diverse superfamily of beetles, primarily consisting of longhorn and leaf beetles, with significant agricultural importance due to several species being pests.

Physical Characteristics

Chrysomeloidea typically have the fourth tarsal segment reduced and hidden by the third segment.

Identification Tips

The largest families include Cerambycidae (long-horned beetles with over 35,000 species) and Chrysomelidae (leaf beetles with over 13,000 species).

Habitat

Found in various habitats, including gardens, forests, and agricultural areas, where they often feed on plants.

Distribution

Widespread globally, with significant populations in gardens and agricultural areas.

Diet

Many Chrysomeloidea are phytophagous, feeding on leaves, buds, twigs, and roots of plants; some are notable pests of crops.

Life Cycle

Life cycles vary among species but generally include a larval stage that feeds on plants before pupating and emerging as adults.

Reproduction

Reproductive strategies vary; typically exhibit egg laying with subsequent larval development on host plants.

Predators

Natural predators include birds, other insects, and some mammals that feed on beetles.

Ecosystem Role

Chrysomeloidea play a significant role in ecosystems as herbivores, influencing plant health and soil structure.

Economic Impact

Some species are serious agricultural pests, such as the spotted cucumber beetle and the Colorado potato beetle.

Collecting Methods

  • Hand collection
  • Sweep netting
  • Light trapping

Preservation Methods

  • Pinning
  • Alcohol preservation
  • Drying

Evolution

Chrysomeloidea are believed to have evolved from pollen feeders during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, transitioning to leaf and stem feeding.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some people confuse Chrysomeloidea with other beetle groups, not recognizing their specific ecological roles and pest status.

Tags

  • Chrysomeloidea
  • beetles
  • Cerambycidae
  • Chrysomelidae
  • pests