Donacia

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
Family: Chrysomelidae
Subfamily: Donaciinae
Genus: Donacia

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Donacia: //dɔˈna.t͡ʃi.a//

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Images

Summary

Donacia is a large genus of aquatic leaf beetles in the subfamily Donaciinae, with over 30 species in North America and more than 80 species globally.

Physical Characteristics

Beetles have long antennae and vary in size from 3 to 12 mm.

Identification Tips

Elytra are typically truncate at the apex, with no expanded sutural bead; hypomeron usually has a broad pubescent area.

Habitat

Aquatic environments where host plants such as waterlilies are found.

Distribution

Holarctic; more diverse in eastern North America, with only 12 species in western North America and numerous species in Eurasia.

Diet

Larvae feed on submerged portions of aquatic plants, while adults feed on the surface parts of the same plants.

Life Cycle

Life cycle includes aquatic larvae that develop in submerged parts of plants.

Ecosystem Role

Aquatic herbivores, playing a role in the plant community dynamics of their habitats.

Similar Taxa

Plateumaris