Deloyala lecontii
Deloyala lecontii is a North American tortoise beetle in the Chrysomelidae, Cassidinae. The is associated with plants in the Convolvulus (morning glories). It exhibits golden iridescent coloration that distinguishes it from related . The species is smaller than members of the genus Chelymorpha but shares similar plant associations.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Deloyala lecontii: /dɛˈloʊ.jə.lə lɛˈkɒn.ti.aɪ/
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Identification
Distinguished from the larger Chelymorpha tortoise beetles by its smaller size and golden iridescent coloration. May be confused with Deloyala guttata, which also exhibits golden iridescence and is associated with morning glories; specific diagnostic characters separating these two are not documented in available sources.
Distribution
North America; specific range details not documented in available sources.
Diet
Associated almost exclusively with plants in the Convolvulus (morning glories and related bindweeds).
Host Associations
- Convolvulus - plant of morning glories and bindweeds; specific plant associations for D. lecontii inferred from genus-level pattern in Deloyala.
Similar Taxa
- Deloyala guttataSimilar golden iridescent coloration and shared plant association with morning glories (Convolvulus). Both are smaller than Chelymorpha tortoise beetles.
- Chelymorpha cassideaLarger North American tortoise beetle with similar plant association; D. lecontii is smaller and more iridescent.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Deloyala is part of the tribe Cassidini within the tortoise beetle Cassidinae. in this genus are noted for their attractive metallic or iridescent coloration.