Green Dock Beetle

Gastrophysa cyanea

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
Family: Chrysomelidae
Subfamily: Chrysomelinae
Tribe: Chrysomelini
Subtribe: Chrysomelina
Genus: Gastrophysa
Species: cyanea

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Gastrophysa cyanea: //ɡæˈstrɒfɪsə saɪˈeɪniə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

Gastrophysa cyanea is a small, metallic leaf beetle found in North America, commonly known as the green dock beetle due to its feeding habits on dock plants. It can be identified by its size and coloration, with females showing distinct reproductive features.

Physical Characteristics

Oblong-oval, metallic green or blue, shining; antennae, legs, and undersurface black; elytra densely and roughly punctate; size ranges from 4-6 mm.

Identification Tips

Females can be distinguished by their swollen abdomens prior to egg laying.

Habitat

Open areas, agricultural land with host plants.

Distribution

Widely distributed in North America; specifically from California to Florida and Ontario to Northwest Territories.

Diet

Primarily feeds on dock plants, particularly Rumex spp. (Polygonaceae).

Life Cycle

Emerges in spring and primarily feeds until late summer.

Reproduction

Egg-laying occurs after emergence; females exhibit swollen abdomens prior to egg-laying.

Ecosystem Role

Acts as a herbivore impacting host plant populations and possibly serving as prey for other species.

Collecting Methods

Netting
Light traps
Hand collection

Preservation Methods

Pinning
Alcohol preservation

Similar Taxa

Gastrophysa viridula

Misconceptions

The name 'green dock beetle' can lead to confusion with Gastrophysa viridula, which is found in Europe.