Chrysomela crotchi

Brown, 1956

aspen leaf beetle

Chrysomela crotchi, the aspen leaf beetle, is a leaf beetle in the Chrysomelidae that feeds exclusively on trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides). are notable for their exceptional longevity, capable of two successive years. The species has been studied extensively in northwestern Ontario and at the Aspen site in northern Wisconsin, where research has examined how plant and atmospheric conditions affect performance. are subject to regulation primarily through on stages and overwintering mortality.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chrysomela crotchi: /ˌkrɪsoʊˈmiːlə ˈkrɒtʃaɪ/

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Habitat

Associated with trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) stands. studied in northwestern Ontario and northern Wisconsin demonstrate consistent association with this across its range.

Distribution

North America. Documented in Canada: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba. Distribution corresponds with range of trembling aspen.

Seasonality

Overwintered become active and begin feeding in late May. Oviposition occurs from early June to late July.

Diet

Foliage of trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides). Both and larvae feed on aspen leaves. Performance varies with and foliar chemistry, particularly phenolic glycosides and nitrogen content.

Host Associations

Populus tremuloides - obligate plantBoth and larvae feed on foliage; performance varies with and foliar chemistry including phenolic glycosides and nitrogen

Life Cycle

. overwinter two successive years. approximately 10 days. Three larval instars require approximately one month to develop to adult stage. Females produce more during their second season.

Ecological Role

herbivore on trembling aspen. Prey for several on stages. Subject to by two larval species, though parasitism rates are low. and mortality are the primary control factors.

More Details

Research History

Long-term studies from 1959–1962 in northwestern Ontario established detailed parameters. More recent research at the Aspen Free-Air CO₂ Enrichment () site in northern Wisconsin examined effects of elevated CO₂ and O₃ on performance, finding that genetic variation in phytochemistry has substantial effects on herbivore performance.

Reproductive Biology

Females lay masses averaging 37.6 eggs, with an average 4-day interval between depositions. Maximum recorded is 326 eggs. Both sexes mate multiple times, though single mating is sufficient for female throughout the season. Males can fertilize multiple females and remain potent for more than one season.