Chaetocnema fuscata
R. White, 1996
Chaetocnema fuscata is a flea beetle ( Alticinae) in the leaf beetle Chrysomelidae. It was described by R. White in 1996 as part of his revision of the Chaetocnema in North America. The is known from North America, with records from Ontario, Canada. Like other members of the genus, it is among the smallest flea beetles, with typically measuring 1–2 mm in length. The genus Chaetocnema includes several species associated with specific plants, though detailed biological information for C. fuscata specifically remains limited.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chaetocnema fuscata: /ˌkiːtəʊˈkniːmə fʌˈskeɪtə/
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Identification
of Chaetocnema fuscata can be distinguished from other Chaetocnema by subtle morphological characters described in White's 1996 revision, including details of the pronotal and elytral . The species is small-bodied (approximately 1–2 mm), with the typical compact, convex form of flea beetles. Accurate identification requires examination of genitalic characters and comparison with the original description. It may be confused with other small Chaetocnema species such as C. quadricollis or C. decipiens (now synonymized with C. quadricollis), from which it differs in specific structural details of the male genitalia and body proportions.
Images
Distribution
Recorded from North America; specifically documented from Ontario, Canada. The full extent of its range within North America remains poorly documented due to limited collection records.
Similar Taxa
- Chaetocnema quadricollisSimilar small size and general appearance; historically confused with C. decipiens, which was synonymized with C. quadricollis. C. quadricollis is associated with Hibiscus and has been recorded from Missouri and other central U.S. states.
- Chaetocnema pulicariaAnother small North American Chaetocnema , but distinguished by its association with corn (Zea mays) and its role as a of Stewart's wilt ; C. pulicaria has a more southern distribution historically but is expanding northward.