Chaetocnema

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
Family: Chrysomelidae
Subfamily: Galerucinae
Tribe: Alticini
Genus: Chaetocnema

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Chaetocnema: //ˌkiːtəˈknɛmə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Chaetocnema truncata by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chaetocnema fulvida by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chaetocnema difficilis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chaetocnema furthi by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Chaetocnema cyanoptera by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Chaetocnema is a genus of flea beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, with around 470 described species worldwide and various species being significant agricultural pests.

Physical Characteristics

Size ranges from 1.1 to 3.25 mm; middle and hind tibiae have a blunt projection or tooth in the apical half, followed by an emargination.

Identification Tips

Species identification is usually impossible from photos due to morphological similarities.

Habitat

Worldwide in open habitats.

Distribution

Approximately 60 species in our area, ~450 total worldwide.

Diet

The larvae are subterranean and feed on a variety of plant families, including Poaceae, Cyperaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Convolvulaceae, Combretaceae, Polygonaceae, and Malvaceae.

Economic Impact

Some species are recognized commercial pests, including C. confinis (Sweetpotato Flea Beetle), C. denticulata (Toothed Flea Beetle), C. ectypa (Desert Corn Flea Beetle), C. pulicaria (Corn Flea Beetle), and C. repens (Dichondra Flea Beetle).

Similar Taxa

Blepharida