Gratiana
Gratiana
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
- Family: Chrysomelidae
- Subfamily: Cassidinae
- Tribe: Cassidini
- Genus: Gratiana
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Gratiana: //ɡræˈtiːænə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Gratiana is a genus of tortoise beetles within the family Chrysomelidae, including 2 known species in the region, one of which is recently introduced for biological control.
Habitat
Found in southern United States to Argentina and Bolivia.
Distribution
Southern US to Argentina & Bolivia.
Diet
Feeds on plants, particularly on members of the Solanaceae family such as Solanum.
Ecosystem Role
Gratiana species play a role in their ecosystems as herbivores, impacting the vegetation they feed on.
Economic Impact
G. boliviana was introduced in Florida for the biological control of Tropical Soda Apple (Solanum viarum).
Tags
- beetle
- Gratiana
- Chrysomelidae
- biological control