Demotina modesta
Baly, 1874
Asian Oak Leaf Beetle
Demotina modesta is a leaf beetle in the Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the Asian Oak Leaf Beetle. Native to Japan and Korea, it has become established as an in the southeastern United States. The species is abundant on oaks and is parthenogenetic in at least part of its range, with no males recorded from North America. It is a summer breeder that likely hibernates as larvae or pupae.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Demotina modesta: /dɛˈmɔtɪna moʊˈdɛsta/
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Habitat
Associated with oak trees; very abundant on oaks.
Distribution
Native to Japan and Korea; in the southeastern United States. GBIF records indicate presence in Europe and Northern Asia (excluding China) and North America, specifically the conterminous 48 United States.
Seasonality
Summer breeder; likely hibernates as larvae or pupae.
Diet
Feeds on oak leaves.
Host Associations
- Quercus - plantVery abundant on oaks
Life Cycle
are laid singly on the undersides of leaves and covered with excrement. Likely hibernates as larvae or pupae.
Behavior
Reproduces parthenogenetically in at least part of its native range; no males are known from North America.
Human Relevance
in North America, established in the southeastern United States.
More Details
Reproductive biology
has been documented in part of the native range, and the North American appears to be entirely female.