Epitrix humeralis

Reliable identification of E. humeralis requires examination of subtle morphological characters, particularly the shape and punctuation of the elytra and pronotum. It must be distinguished from other North American Epitrix species, including the economically important E. tuberis (potato flea beetle) and E. cucumeris. The specific combination of elytral striae, pronotal shape, and male genitalia structure is used for definitive identification. Specimens should be compared with type material or verified reference collections.

Specific habitat preferences for E. humeralis are not well documented. Members of the genus Epitrix are generally associated with herbaceous vegetation, particularly in agricultural and disturbed habitats where Solanaceae host plants occur.

North America, with confirmed records from Ontario, Canada. The full extent of its range within North America remains incompletely documented.

As a flea beetle, possesses the characteristic jumping escape response when disturbed, enabled by enlarged hind femora. Specific behavioral observations for this species are not documented.

• Epitrix tuberisSimilar size and general appearance; E. tuberis is a major agricultural pest of potato and other Solanaceae, distinguished by specific elytral punctation and host association patterns.
• Epitrix cucumerisOverlapping distribution and similar morphology; E. cucumeris is distinguished by subtle differences in pronotal and elytral sculpture, and may show different host preferences.

• flea beetle
• Chrysomelidae
• North America
• leaf beetle
• Coleoptera

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
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