Cucumber Beetles

Diabrotica

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Chrysomeloidea
Family: Chrysomelidae
Subfamily: Galerucinae
Tribe: Luperini
Subtribe: Diabroticina
Genus: Diabrotica

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Diabrotica: //ˌdaɪ.əˈbɹoʊ.tɪ.kə//

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

Images

Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Diabrotica bipuncticollis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Diabrotica nitida by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Diabrotica farri by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Diabrotica hispaniolae by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Diabrotica is a large, widespread genus of beetles in the family Chrysomelidae. They include several destructive agricultural pest species commonly known as cucumber beetles or corn rootworms.

Habitat

New World, mostly neotropical regions, including most of North America.

Distribution

Over 350 species worldwide, with 107 species in North and Central America; most abundant and destructive in the southern regions.

Diet

Members of this genus are known to be agricultural pests, feeding on crops such as cucumbers and corn.

Ecosystem Role

As agricultural pests, they play a significant role in ecosystems where crops are grown, influencing agricultural practices and pest management efforts.

Economic Impact

Diabrotica species, particularly cucumber beetles and corn rootworms, are destructive agricultural pests that can significantly impact crop yields.