Kuschelina vians
(Illiger, 1807)
Red-lined Flea Beetle
Kuschelina vians is a of flea beetle in the Chrysomelidae. Commonly known as the Red-lined Flea Beetle, it occurs in North America with confirmed records from western Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. As a member of the flea beetle group, it possesses enlarged hind adapted for jumping.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Kuschelina vians: //kʊˈʃɛlɪnə ˈvi.ænz//
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Identification
The "Red-lined Flea Beetle" suggests the presence of distinctive red longitudinal markings, though specific diagnostic features require verification. Flea beetles in the Kuschelina are generally small, compact beetles with enlarged hind legs. Positive identification to level likely requires examination of genitalia or other subtle morphological characters.
Images
Distribution
North America. Documented from Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba in Canada. The full extent of its range within North America is not fully characterized.
More Details
Nomenclature
Originally described by Illiger in 1807. The Kuschelina was established to accommodate formerly placed in other genera, reflecting taxonomic revisions within the Alticini (flea beetles).
Observation Frequency
The has accumulated 445 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is encountered with moderate frequency by naturalists, though this may reflect observer effort rather than true abundance.