Chrysochus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chrysochus: /ˈkrɪsoʊkəs/

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Summary

Chrysochus auratus, or the dogbane beetle, is a leaf beetle primarily inhabiting eastern North America. It feeds exclusively on dogbane plants, having adapted to their toxic properties. Its role as a potential biological control for invasive plants is of agricultural interest, despite limitations in effectiveness.

Physical Characteristics

Approximately 8 to 11 mm in length, with an oblong and convex shape. Iridescent blue-green color with copper-colored elytra and a bluish-black undersurface. Possesses a long pair of antennae and heavily chitinized elytra that protect more fragile hind wings.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinctive iridescent blue-green coloration and coppery elytra. The size ranges from 8 to 11 mm in length, and they exhibit a convex shape.

Habitat

Primarily found in the eastern United States and parts of southern Canada, often inhabiting areas with Apocynum (dogbane) plants.

Distribution

Holarctic; mainly eastern North America, west into adjacent southern Canada and the Rocky Mountains, with the western species (Chrysochus cobaltinus) found in western North America.

Diet

Exclusively feeds on dogbane (Apocynum), specifically Apocynum cannabinum and Apocynum androsaemifolium. Larvae feed on the roots while adults feed on the leaves.

Life Cycle

Typically, one generation per year. Eggs are laid on the underside of dogbane leaves; larvae emerge, drop to the ground to feed on roots, pupate in soil, and emerge as adults in early summer.

Reproduction

Highly polygamous lifestyle with copulation occurring daily; eggs are laid on the underside of dogbane leaves and covered with fecal sacs for protection.

Ecosystem Role

Considered a potential biological control agent for dogbane and potentially harmful invasive species.

Economic Impact

Impacts agriculture by affecting blueberry cultivation due to interference from dogbane plants; considered for biological control mechanisms.

Health Concerns

Plants in the Apocynum genus contain toxins (cardenolides) that can be fatal to many organisms, including humans, if ingested.

Evolution

Two species (C. auratus and C. cobaltinus) historically have allopatric distributions but have hybrid zones where interbreeding occurs.

Tags

• Chrysochus auratus
• dogbane beetle
• leaf beetle
• biological control
• Holarctic