Western Striped Cucumber Beetle

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Acalymma trivittatum: //əˈkælɪmə tɹɪvɪˈteɪtəm//

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Summary

Acalymma trivittatum, known as the western striped cucumber beetle, is a significant agricultural pest primarily affecting cucurbit crops in North America and Central America.

Physical Characteristics

Black below with distinct yellow stripes on the dorsal side.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic yellow stripes on the body, which differentiate it from other beetles.

Habitat

Primarily found in agricultural areas and gardens where cucurbit plants are grown.

Distribution

Western United States (Washington to California) and extending to Utah and Texas, as well as Central America.

Diet

Both larvae and adults feed on plants in the Cucurbitaceae family.

Life Cycle

Undergoes complete metamorphosis, from eggs to larvae to pupae and then to adults.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs on or near host plants, particularly cucurbits, where larvae can feed after hatching.

Ecosystem Role

Acts as both a pest and a herbivore in agricultural ecosystems, particularly affecting cucurbit crops.

Economic Impact

Considered a key pest in agriculture, especially in cucumber and squash production due to its feeding activities.

Collecting Methods

• Hand collection from infested plants
• Using nets or traps to capture adults

Preservation Methods

• Placing beetles in ethanol for preservation
• Drying specimens for long-term storage

Similar Taxa

• Other species within the genus Acalymma
• Related beetles in the family Chrysomelidae

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for other beetles in the same family but can be identified by its distinctive stripes and coloring.

Tags

• Pest
• Agriculture
• Cucurbitaceae
• Beetle
• Chrysomelidae