Lexiphanes saponatus
(Fabricius, 1801)
Lexiphanes saponatus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the Chrysomelidae. It was the first Nearctic member of the Cryptocephalinae to have its stages described. The exhibits distinctive larval adaptations including the ability to climb and move on its plant, unlike most other Cryptocephalinae larvae which are confined to leaf litter. Its larva displays remarkable camouflage by mimicking plant buds.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lexiphanes saponatus: //lɛkˈsɪ.fə.niːz ˌsæp.əˈneɪ.təs//
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Identification
Larva distinguished from related by large papillose frontal setae, particularly from the Palearctic Suffrianus. Pupa identified by characteristic on seventh and ninth abdominal segments. identification features not specified in available sources.
Appearance
: Not described in available sources. : Coated with oblique ornamentations typical of Cryptocephalinae. Larva: Distinguished by large papillate frontal setae; capable of climbing on vegetation. Pupa: Resembles Chlamisinae in general form but bears distinctive projections on the seventh and ninth abdominal segments.
Habitat
Associated with plant Cassandra calyculata. Larvae are found on the host plant itself, not in leaf litter as is typical for other Cryptocephalinae.
Distribution
North America. Documented from Alberta, Manitoba, and New Brunswick in Canada.
Seasonality
activity period not specified. Larvae overwinter in first or second instar.
Diet
Feeds on Cassandra calyculata.
Host Associations
- Cassandra calyculata - plantLarva moves on and mimics buds of this plant
Life Cycle
, larva (at least two instars), pupa, . Overwinters as larva in first or second instar. Whether development completes in one growing season or requires a second period remains uncertain.
Behavior
Larva climbs and moves freely on plant, unlike other Cryptocephalinae larvae which cannot climb and live in leaf litter. Larva mimics host plant buds with camouflage that renders it nearly invisible to human observation.
Similar Taxa
- SuffrianusLarva shows morphological resemblances but distinguished by large papillate frontal setae
- ChlamisinaePupa resembles in general form but distinguished by projections on seventh and ninth abdominal segments
- Other CryptocephalinaeLarva distinguished by climbing ability and plant-dwelling habit; other Cryptocephalinae larvae live in leaf litter and cannot climb plants
More Details
Taxonomic significance
First Nearctic Cryptocephalinae with described stages, providing important comparative data for .
Life cycle uncertainty
Whether the has a one-year or two-year remains unresolved; some other Cryptocephalinae overwinter twice as larvae.