Cryptocephalus guttulatus
Olivier, 1808
Fourteen-spotted Leaf Beetle
Cryptocephalus guttulatus, commonly known as the fourteen-spotted , is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the Chrysomelidae. The is found in North America, with documented records from Ontario and Québec in Canada. It belongs to a large of leaf beetles known for their rounded, compact bodies and protective larval cases. The refers to the spotted pattern on its .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cryptocephalus guttulatus: /ˌkrɪptoʊˈsɛfələs ɡʌtʊˈleɪtəs/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Cryptocephalus by the fourteen-spotted pattern on the , as indicated by the . Members of the typically have a rounded, convex body shape with short . Accurate identification to species level requires examination of spot arrangement and other subtle morphological characters.
Images
Distribution
North America. Documented from Ontario and Québec, Canada. Distribution records indicate presence across North America generally.
Life Cycle
As a case-bearing leaf beetle, larvae construct portable cases from fecal material and shed skins, a characteristic trait of the Cryptocephalus . Specific developmental details for C. guttulatus are not documented in available sources.
Behavior
Larvae are case-bearers, constructing and carrying protective cases during development. This is characteristic of the Cryptocephalus.
Similar Taxa
- Other Cryptocephalus speciesMany share similar rounded body shape and spotted elytral patterns. C. guttulatus is distinguished specifically by the fourteen-spot configuration.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The was described by Guillaume-Antoine Olivier in 1808. The Cryptocephalus is one of the largest genera of leaf beetles, containing over 1,200 species globally.