Diabroticina

Diabroticina

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Diabroticina: /dɪəˌbrɒtɪˈsaɪnə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Diabrotica balteata lateral by Willow Warren, Department of Agriculture Western Australia. Used under a CC BY 3.0 au license.
DiabroticaBarberi2 by Smidon33. Used under a CC BY-SA 3.0 license.
Acalymma vittatum 1234090 by Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series,. Used under a Public domain license.
Diabrotica balteata dorsal by Willow Warren, Department of Agriculture Western Australia. Used under a CC BY 3.0 au license.
Frost Aster (Symphyotrichum pilosum) - Flickr - wackybadger (1) by Joshua Mayer from Madison, WI, USA. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.
Acalymma vittatum 5303048 by Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University. Used under a CC BY 3.0 us license.

Summary

The Diabroticina subtribe encompasses a large and diverse group of beetles primarily known for their role as agricultural pests, affecting crops predominantly through their larval feeding stages.

Physical Characteristics

Large-sized beetles with elongated bodies, often displaying bright colors and distinctive markings.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic coloration and patterns; many species have a smooth, shiny surface with prominent eyes and antennae.

Habitat

Predominantly found in agricultural environments, gardens, and grasslands.

Distribution

Widespread across North America and parts of South America, particularly in agricultural areas.

Diet

Primarily herbivorous; many species feed on the foliage of important crops such as cucumbers and corn.

Life Cycle

Undergo complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs in the soil or on host plants, where larvae emerge and begin feeding on plant material.

Predators

Natural predators include birds, spiders, and parasitic insects.

Ecosystem Role

Act as both herbivores and prey for various species, contributing to the ecological balance in their habitats.

Economic Impact

Some species are significant agricultural pests, causing damage to crops, leading to financial losses for farmers.

Collecting Methods

  • Hand collection
  • Pheromone traps
  • Light traps

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Drying and mounting
  • Freezing for temporary storage

Evolution

The Diabroticina subtribe showcases a diversity of adaptations that enable survival in various environments, particularly in relation to their host plants.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

They are often confused with other beetles in similar ecological niches but belong to distinct taxonomic groups.

Tags

  • Beetles
  • Chrysomelidae
  • Agricultural pests
  • Diabrotica