Plagiodera arizonae

Distinguished from other Plagiodera species by its restricted Arizona distribution and the specific combination of black elytra with red head and legs. The genus Plagiodera is characterized by small, oval leaf beetles with enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping.

Adults have black elytra (wing covers), red head, and red legs. The contrasting color pattern of black body with red appendages is distinctive within the genus.

Associated with riparian and woodland habitats in Arizona where host plants (willows and poplars, genus Salix and Populus) occur.

Endemic to Arizona, United States. GBIF records indicate presence in North America and Middle America, with confirmed occurrence in Arizona.

Larvae and adults feed on leaves of willows (Salix spp.) and poplars (Populus spp.), based on documented host associations for the genus Plagiodera.

• Salix - larval and adult food plantgenus-level association for Plagiodera
• Populus - larval and adult food plantgenus-level association for Plagiodera

Herbivore that consumes leaves of woody riparian vegetation; contributes to nutrient cycling and serves as prey for predators.

• Plagiodera versicoloraSimilar size and body shape, but P. arizonae is geographically restricted to Arizona while P. versicolora has broader distribution; color patterns differ
• Other Chrysomelini leaf beetlesShare family characteristics but differ in host associations and coloration patterns

• Arizona endemic
• leaf beetle
• Chrysomelini
• willow feeder
• black and red coloration

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Grasshoppers of Colorado
• Grasshoppers of Colorado
• Bembicid Holdings | Entomology Research Museum
• 2018 Arizona Insect Collecting Trip “iReport” | Beetles In The Bush