Disonycha pluriligata

(J.L.LeConte, 1858)

Disonycha pluriligata is a flea beetle in the Chrysomelidae that exhibits eruptive . It is a herbivore strongly associated with Salix exigua (coyote willow), on which both larvae and feed. The completes multiple annually and is found in riparian across Central and North America.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Disonycha pluriligata: //dɪˈsɒnɪkə ˌplʊərɪˈlaɪɡətə//

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Habitat

Riparian or wetland where Salix exigua (coyote willow) occurs. The plant's distribution determines suitable habitat for this herbivore.

Distribution

Central America and North America. GBIF records confirm presence in Middle America and North America.

Diet

Foliage of Salix exigua (coyote willow). Larvae skeletonize leaves, removing tissue between . feed on foliage, causing characteristic damage patterns.

Host Associations

  • Salix exigua - primary Strong specificity documented; both larval and stages depend on this willow

Life Cycle

Multivoltine, with multiple per year. Development includes: laid in masses on leaves, three larval instars with gregarious feeding, in soil, and . Complete development documented on Salix exigua.

Behavior

Larvae feed gregariously, skeletonizing leaves in groups. Females exhibit specific oviposition choices when selecting plants. are eruptive, with potential for rapid increases.

Ecological Role

Herbivore and potential defoliator of Salix exigua . As a feeder, it may influence willow growth and productivity in riparian .

Similar Taxa

  • Disonycha speciesOther Disonycha flea beetles share general ; D. pluriligata distinguished by specificity to Salix exigua and documented eruptive
  • Other Chrysomelidae on SalixMultiple leaf beetles feed on willows; D. pluriligata identified by specific association with S. exigua and characteristic skeletonizing larval damage

More Details

Research significance

Disonycha pluriligata has been studied as a model for eruptive herbivore , particularly in comparison with non-eruptive . Research has focused on female oviposition as a potential driver of .

Sources and further reading