Neochlamisus bimaculatus

Karren, 1972

warty leaf beetle

Neochlamisus bimaculatus is a small case-bearing in the tribe Chlamisini, commonly known as warty leaf beetles. The is associated with Rubus spp., including blackberry, on which it mates, feeds, and oviposits. Like other members of the Camptosomata, it exhibits remarkable of for protection against .

Neochlamisus bimaculatus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Neochlamisus bimaculatus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.Neochlamisus bimaculatus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Neochlamisus bimaculatus: /niːoʊˈklæmɪsəs ˌbaɪmæˈkjuːlətəs/

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Identification

Members of the Neochlamisus are distinguished from the related genus Exema by their slightly larger size (3–4 mm versus 2–3 mm). When disturbed, the retracts its and folds legs and into precisely matched grooves, eliminating any visible indication of an and completing the resemblance to . Some within the genus show bright coppery coloration, though specific coloration for N. bimaculatus is not documented in available sources.

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Habitat

Associated with plants in the Rubus, which includes blackberry.

Diet

Feeds on Rubus spp., including blackberry.

Host Associations

  • Rubus spp. - primary Includes blackberry; used for feeding, mating, and

Life Cycle

are equipped with a cap of that serves as starting material for the larval case and likely deters . are case-bearing, constructing portable cases from their own feces.

Behavior

When sufficiently disturbed, the completely retracts appendages and may roll off the leaf to escape harm.

Similar Taxa

  • Exema spp.Similar -mimicking appearance and , but Exema are smaller (2–3 mm) and associated with different plants including Asteraceae such as Ratibida pinnata and Rudbeckia subtomentosa.
  • Neochlamisus plataniCongeneric with bright coppery coloration found on eastern sycamore (Platanus occidentalis); N. bimaculatus is distinguished by association with Rubus rather than Platanus.

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Sources and further reading