Jonthonota mexicana
(Champion, 1894)
Jonthonota mexicana is a of tortoise beetle in the Chrysomelidae, first described by Champion in 1894. It belongs to the Cassidinae, characterized by the distinctive flattened, shield-like body form typical of tortoise beetles. The species is known to occur in both Central America and North America. As a member of the Jonthonota, it shares affinities with other morning glory-associated tortoise beetles.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Jonthonota mexicana: //ˌdʒɔnθəˈnoʊtə ˌmeksɪˈkɑːnə//
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Distribution
Central America and North America. GBIF records confirm presence in Middle America and North America.
Host Associations
- Ipomoea - feeds on Jonthonota is associated with morning glories (Ipomoea), though specific records for J. mexicana require confirmation
Similar Taxa
- Jonthonota nigripesSimilar size and ; both are North American Jonthonota associated with morning glories. J. nigripes has been noted as 'almost as nice' and comparable in appearance, though likely differs in coloration and specific distribution.
- Deloyala guttataAnother North American tortoise beetle associated with morning glories; similar and preferences. D. guttata is distinguished by golden iridescence and smaller size compared to Chelymorpha , with Jonthonota species being intermediate in size.
- Chelymorpha cassideaLarger North American tortoise beetle with similar morning glory (Convolvulus/Ipomoea) associations. C. cassidea is notably larger than Jonthonota and has different coloration patterns, but shares the flattened tortoise beetle body form and Cassidinae characteristics.
More Details
Taxonomic placement
Jonthonota mexicana was described by George Charles Champion in 1894. The Jonthonota is classified in the tribe Cassidini within the Cassidinae (tortoise beetles). The subfamily is characterized by a greatly expanded pronotum and that form a protective shield over the body, often with the ability to clamp down tightly against surfaces.
Observation records
iNaturalist lists 44 observations for this , indicating it is documented but not frequently encountered by citizen scientists. The relatively low observation count suggests it may be less conspicuous, more geographically restricted, or less actively sought than some related tortoise beetle species.