Systena

Chevrolat in Dejean, 1836

Species Guides

14

Systena is a of flea beetles (Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini) containing approximately 90 described distributed primarily in the New World, with greatest diversity in the Neotropics. Members possess the enlarged hind characteristic of flea beetles, enabling jumping locomotion. Several species, particularly S. frontalis (the red-headed ), have emerged as significant economic pests of agricultural crops and ornamental nursery plants in the United States.

Systena frontalis by no rights reserved, uploaded by Jesse Rorabaugh. Used under a CC0 license.Systena bitaeniata by no rights reserved. Used under a CC0 license.Systena bitaeniata by no rights reserved. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Systena: /sɪsˈtiːnə/

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Images

Distribution

New World, predominantly Neotropical region; S. frontalis widespread in central and eastern United States

Human Relevance

S. frontalis is a major pest of container-grown ornamental nurseries in the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast United States, causing defoliation that reduces plant salability; also damages agricultural crops including corn (Zea mays) and cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon)

Sources and further reading