Plateumaris germari
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
- Family: Chrysomelidae
- Subfamily: Donaciinae
- Tribe: Plateumarini
- Genus: Plateumaris
- Species: germari
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Plateumaris germari: /plæ.tɛuˈmaː.ris ɡɛrˈmaː.ri/
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Summary
Plateumaris germari is an aquatic leaf beetle from the family Chrysomelidae, known for its distinct hind femur and widespread presence across North America.
Physical Characteristics
Plateumaris germari has a broad (non-clavate) shape with a prominent spine on the hind femur.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinct broad shape of the hind femur and the overall aquatic adaptations characteristic of leaf beetles.
Habitat
This species inhabits aquatic environments, typically found on or near regions with abundant vegetation in freshwater habitats.
Distribution
Plateumaris germari is distributed from Northern California and Alaska to New York and Newfoundland.
Diet
As a leaf beetle, Plateumaris germari feeds primarily on aquatic plants and foliage.
Life Cycle
The life cycle stages of Plateumaris germari include egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, typical of beetle development (holometabolous).
Reproduction
This species reproduces by laying eggs on aquatic vegetation, where the larvae will feed and develop.
Ecosystem Role
Plateumaris germari plays a role in freshwater ecosystems as a herbivore, influencing plant community dynamics.
Collecting Methods
- Net sampling in aquatic environments
- Hand collection from vegetation
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pinning for entomological study
Tags
- beetle
- Chrysomelidae
- aquatic
- North America
- Plateumaris germari