Chrysomelini
Latreille, 1802
leaf beetles
Genus Guides
5Chrysomelini is a large and diverse tribe of leaf beetles within the Chrysomelidae, comprising over 150 described . The tribe includes economically significant such as the Colorado potato beetle (*Leptinotarsa decemlineata*) and numerous other herbivorous beetles associated with specific plants. Subtribal classifications within Chrysomelini remain subject to ongoing taxonomic revision.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chrysomelini: //kɹaɪˌsɒməˈlaɪnaɪ//
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Identification
Members of Chrysomelini are leaf beetles with the general characteristics of the Chrysomelinae: compact, often convex bodies with short and well-developed hind legs adapted for clinging to vegetation. Tribal-level identification requires examination of tarsal structure, antennal insertion, and male genitalia; these features separate Chrysomelini from related tribes such as Gonioctenini and Phyllocharitini.
Images
Distribution
Worldwide distribution with greatest diversity in temperate and tropical regions; individual show varying geographic ranges from Nearctic and Palearctic to Neotropical, Afrotropical, and Australasian realms.
Diet
Herbivorous; larvae and feed on living plant tissue, primarily leaves. Many exhibit strong plant associations, with some restricted to single plant or genera.
Host Associations
- Solanaceae - plantIncludes major pest in *Leptinotarsa*
- Salicaceae - plantPrimary for *Chrysomela*, *Phratora*, and related
- Asteraceae - plant for many *Chrysolina*
Life Cycle
Holometabolous with complete : , larva, pupa, . Larval development typically occurs on or near plants; may occur in soil, leaf litter, or on host vegetation depending on .
Ecological Role
Herbivores that influence plant composition through selective feeding; serve as prey for various including birds, spiders, and ; some function as biocontrol agents for plants.
Human Relevance
Includes major agricultural pests, most notably the Colorado potato beetle (*Leptinotarsa decemlineata*), which causes significant damage to potato, tomato, and eggplant crops. Some are used in of weeds, such as *Chrysolina* species for control of hypericum (*Hypericum perforatum*).
Similar Taxa
- GoniocteniniSimilar leaf beetle tribe in Chrysomelinae; distinguished by tarsal formula and antennal structure
- PhyllocharitiniRelated tribe with overlapping ; separated by male genitalia and larval characteristics
More Details
Taxonomic instability
The subtribal classification of Chrysomelini has undergone repeated revision, with different authors recognizing between 4 and 12 subtribes. Molecular phylogenetic studies continue to reshape relationships among constituent .
Notable genera
Includes *Chrysomela* (willow leaf beetles), *Leptinotarsa* (potato beetles), *Calligrapha* (calligrapha beetles), *Chrysolina* (chrysolina beetles), and *Phaedon* (watercress beetles).