Trirhabda bacharidis (Weber, 1801)
(Weber, 1801)
groundselbush beetle, groundsel bush leaf beetle
Trirhabda bacharidis is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the Chrysomelidae. It is highly specialized to feed on Baccharis (Asteraceae), with both and larvae consuming plant foliage. The species has been documented in Australia, North America, and Southern Asia, and has been studied for its potential.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Trirhabda bacharidis (Weber, 1801): /traɪˈræbdə bəˈkærɪdɪs/
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Images
Distribution
Australia; North America; Southern Asia
Diet
and larvae feed on Baccharis (Asteraceae: Astereae); specificity testing indicates restricted feeding to Baccharis within the tribe Astereae
Host Associations
- Baccharis - plantprimary ; both and larvae feed on foliage
- Baccharis halimifolia - plantobserved in Florida
Human Relevance
Has been investigated as a potential agent for Baccharis
Similar Taxa
- Trirhabda speciescongeneric may overlap in distribution and use; precise identification requires examination of morphological details
- Other Chrysomelidaeskeletonizing leaf damage pattern is shared with many chrysomelid beetles; association with Baccharis helps distinguish