Anisostena lecontii
(Baly, 1864)
Anisostena lecontii is a small leaf beetle in the Chrysomelidae, known from the southeastern United States. measure approximately 4.6–4.8 mm in length and exhibit distinctive coloration with a black and contrasting with a red pronotum that has black basal and margins. The has been recorded from Florida, South Carolina, and Virginia. Adults have been collected on Panicum repens, though whether this grass serves as the actual food plant remains uncertain.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Anisostena lecontii: /ˌænɪˈsɒstɪnə lɪˈkɒntaɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
The combination of small size (under 5 mm), black and , and red pronotum with black basal and margins distinguishes this from most other eastern North American chrysomelids. Similar hispine leaf beetles in the related Microrhopala differ in pronotal coloration and pattern.
Habitat
Specific associations are poorly documented. have been collected in association with Panicum repens (torpedo grass), a grass common in moist, disturbed habitats in the southeastern United States.
Distribution
Recorded from the southeastern United States: Florida, South Carolina, and Virginia.
Diet
have been observed on Panicum repens, but it has not been confirmed whether this feeds on this grass or uses it for some other purpose.
Host Associations
- Panicum repens - association collected on this grass; food plant status uncertain
Similar Taxa
- Microrhopala speciesSimilar hispine leaf beetles with comparable size and body form; differ in pronotal coloration and pattern
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The specific epithet 'lecontii' honors the American entomologist John Lawrence LeConte (1825–1883), a prolific describer of North American beetles.