Case-bearing Leaf Beetles

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cryptocephalinae: /ˌkrɪptoʊˈsɛfəlaɪniː/

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Summary

Cryptocephalinae is a diverse subfamily of leaf beetles known for their case-bearing larvae and association with ants. They exhibit a range of feeding habits, primarily detritivorous.

Physical Characteristics

Compact, subcylindrical to subglobose; head inserted into the prothorax. Long, thread-like antennae are common, but not universal among Cryptocephalinae.

Identification Tips

Identification can be aided by observing the shape of the body and the structure of the antennae, particularly their length and form.

Habitat

Larvae live in litter on the soil surface or on the leaves of host plants; they drop to the ground when threatened.

Distribution

Approximately 350 species in 22 genera in the specified area, with close to 4,000 species worldwide.

Diet

Larvae are mostly detritivorous, with some consuming green leaves.

Life Cycle

The larvae produce cases from their feces, which serve as a pupation chamber during their life cycle.

Ecosystem Role

They play a role in nutrient cycling through their detritivorous larvae and interact with ant species due to myrmecophilous behavior in many species.

Collecting Methods

• Netting from host plants
• Searching leaf litter

Preservation Methods

• Drying specimens
• Storing in ethanol

Evolution

Cryptocephalinae are part of the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae and have evolved specific adaptations for living in association with ants and for case-bearing behaviors.

Similar Taxa

• Chrysomelidae
• Clytrini
• Fulcidacini

Misconceptions

Not all Cryptocephalinae have long antennae; this is a trait that varies among species.

Tags

• Cryptocephalinae
• beetles
• leaf beetles
• Chrysomelidae
• detritivorous
• myrmecophilous