Phaedon oviformis
LeConte, 1861
Mustard Phaedon Beetle
Phaedon oviformis is a small leaf beetle in the Chrysomelidae, first described by LeConte in 1861. It is known from scattered records across northern and western North America, with documented occurrences in Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. The is commonly referred to as the Mustard Phaedon , suggesting an association with plants in the mustard family (Brassicaceae), though specific ecological details remain poorly documented. Like other members of the Phaedon, it likely feeds on foliage of plants.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phaedon oviformis: /ˈfɛˌdɒn oʊvəˈfɔːrmɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Members of the Phaedon are small, oval leaf beetles with metallic or dark coloration. Specific diagnostic features for P. oviformis separating it from such as P. armoraciae or P. fulvescens have not been clearly documented in available sources.
Distribution
Recorded from western and central Canada, specifically Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. The broader North American distribution is indicated but not precisely defined.
Host Associations
- Brassicaceae - probableInferred from 'Mustard Phaedon '; direct documentation lacking
Similar Taxa
- Phaedon armoraciaeSimilar size, shape, and plant ; distinguished by subtle differences in elytral and coloration
- Phaedon fulvescensOverlapping distribution in North America; distinguished by coloration and pronotal shape
More Details
Taxonomic note
The was described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1861. The Phaedon contains approximately 150 species worldwide, with several North American representatives.
Data limitations
This is represented by only one observation in iNaturalist as of the data cutoff, indicating it is rarely encountered or underreported. Published biological information is minimal.