Leaf-beetle

Guides

Acallepitrix nitens
Acallepitrix nitens is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Horn in 1889. The species is native to North America and belongs to a genus of small leaf beetles known for their jumping ability, enabled by enlarged hind femora. Very little specific biological information has been published for this particular species.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Alticinae flea-beetle leaf-beetle North-America
Acalymma
striped cucumber beetles, cucumber beetles
Acalymma is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae comprising approximately 72 described species in the Western Hemisphere. The genus is primarily distributed in the New World, with most species occurring in North America including Mexico. Two species, A. vittatum (striped cucumber beetle) and A. trivittatum (western striped cucumber beetle), are major agricultural pests of cucurbit crops. Acalymma species are specialists on plants in the family Cucurbitaceae, with adults feeding on leaves, flowers, and fruit, and larvae feeding on roots.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae cucurbit-specialist agricultural-pest bacterial-wilt-vector aggregation-pheromone vittatalactone New-World North-America Mexico integrated-pest-management biological-control chemical-ecology RNAi-target
Acalymma blandulum
Acalymma blandulum is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was revised taxonomically in 1980, which established three recognized subspecies with distinct geographic distributions in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It belongs to the genus Acalymma, which includes several agriculturally significant cucurbit-feeding species.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae skeletonizing-beetle Acalymma North-America Mexico taxonomy subspecies
Acanthoscelides aureolus
Licorice Seed Beetle
Acanthoscelides aureolus is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the Licorice Seed Beetle. It is distributed across Central America and North America, with records extending as far north as Alberta, Canada. The genus Acanthoscelides is known for seed-feeding beetles, many of which are associated with leguminous plants.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle seed-beetle North-America Central-America legume-pest
Acanthoscelides calvus
Acanthoscelides calvus is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Horn in 1873. The species is distributed across North America, with records from Canada and the United States. Larvae have been documented feeding specifically on seeds of Crocanthemum, a genus in the rockrose family (Cistaceae).
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae seed-predator Crocanthemum North-America
Acanthoscelides chiricahuae
Acanthoscelides chiricahuae is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Fall in 1910. The species is found in Central America and North America, with the specific epithet suggesting a connection to the Chiricahua region of southeastern Arizona. As a member of the subfamily Bruchinae (seed beetles), it likely develops in seeds of leguminous host plants, though specific host associations have not been documented in the available sources.
leaf-beetle seed-beetle Bruchinae Chrysomelidae Coleoptera
Acanthoscelides margaretae
a. margaretae or near
Acanthoscelides margaretae is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Johnson in 1970. It belongs to a genus of seed beetles commonly associated with leguminous plants. The species is known from North America, though detailed biological information remains limited.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae seed-beetle North-America Coleoptera
Acanthoscelides pectoralis
Acanthoscelides pectoralis is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, specifically placed in the subfamily Bruchinae (seed beetles). The species was described by Horn in 1873 and has a documented distribution spanning Central America and North America. Like other members of its genus, it is likely associated with leguminous host plants, though specific host records for this species remain limited in the available literature. The genus Acanthoscelides contains numerous species that are economically significant as pests of stored legumes and agricultural crops.
seed-beetle leaf-beetle Bruchinae legume-associate Central-America North-America Horn-1873
Acanthoscelides seminulum
Acanthoscelides seminulum is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Horn in 1873. The species is found in North America, with records from the Canadian provinces of Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. As a member of the genus Acanthoscelides, it belongs to a group commonly known as bean weevils or seed beetles, many of which are associated with leguminous plants.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae seed-beetle North-America Canadian-prairies
Acanthoscelides tenuis
Acanthoscelides tenuis is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Bottimer in 1935. The species belongs to a genus whose members are commonly known as bean weevils or seed beetles, with larvae typically developing inside legume seeds. It is known to occur in North America, with records from the United States and Canada.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae seed-beetle North-America
Acrocyum sallaei
Acrocyum sallaei is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Martin Jacoby in 1885. The genus Acrocyum is small and poorly documented, with limited published information on its biology. Records indicate presence in Middle and North America, though specific details about its ecology and natural history remain sparse. The species is rarely encountered in collections and has minimal observational data.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae rarely-observed understudied
Agrilus obsoletoguttatus
Beech Borer
Agrilus obsoletoguttatus is a small metallic wood-boring beetle in the family Buprestidae, native to North America. It is among the smallest jewel beetle species utilized as prey by the specialist predatory wasp Cerceris fumipennis, which provisions its underground nests with paralyzed buprestid beetles. The species has been documented in nest caches containing up to 13 individuals, reflecting its small size relative to larger buprestid prey.
Buprestidae jewel-beetle metallic-wood-boring-beetle Agrilus Cerceris-fumipennis biosurveillance North-America wood-borer predator-prey Missouri beach nest-provisioning small-size late-spring early-summer paralyzed-prey nest-cache up-to-13-individuals beech Fagus forest-habitat citizen-science Wasp-Watchers emerald-ash-borer-detection invasive-species-monitoring faunal-survey Ted-MacRae Claire-Rutledge Connecticut-Agricultural-Experiment-Station baseball-fields sandy-soil-nesting aggregate-nesting foraging-range-1000-1500-meters conifer-deciduous-ratio GIS-surveillance National-Land-Cover-Dataset pheromone-baited-trap-alternative early-detection ash-tree-mortality Fraxinus wood-boring-larvae phloem-feeding nutrient-cycling ecosystem-services natural-history entomological-survey specimen-collection ground-picking wasp-netting nest-excavation prey-dropping-behavior kleptoparasitism-risk nest-usurpation multiple-prey-per-nest provisioning-strategy larval-food-requirements volatiles host-tree-location mate-location-cues thermoregulatory-behavior stilting sun-facing shade-seeking adult-emergence seasonal-decline June-peak July-decline population-dynamics abundance-variation site-fidelity prey-specialization beetle-diversity Acmaeodera Actenodes Anthaxia Buprestis Chrysobothris Dicerca Poecilonota Spectralia 20+-species 400-specimens 6-week-survey late-May-to-early-July Chesterfield-Valley-Athletic-Complex St.-Louis-County practice-fields lightly-vegetated sandy-clay-soil burrow-architecture circular-entrance pencil-sized symmetrical-mound fine-texture 10-15-cm-depth angled-burrow prey-prediction species-consistency-within-nests single-species-provisioning multiple-species-nests prey-size-correlation abundant-caddisfly-prey blacklight-attraction UV-light nocturnal-activity Ellipsoptera Habroscelimorpha Cicindela rarely-attracted photography-challenges stalking-techniques cooperative-individuals thermal-conditions wary-behavior open-sand-habitats vegetative-cover-absence extreme-temperatures stilting-posture lateral-profile hand-held-photography natural-surroundings scale-and-depth composition ESA-World-of-Insects-Calendar field-guide-development northeastern-jewel-beetles larval-host-associations distributional-notes Missouri-River-Valley Big-Muddy-National-Wildlife-Refuge levee underground-nest provisioning paralysis egg-laying soil-plug pupal-development seasonal-cycle solitary-wasp crabronid Sphecidae Philanthinae Cercerini specialist-predator almost-exclusive-prey buprestid-specialization efficient-location repeated-visitation prey-depletion foraging-strategy mystery speculation pheromone-detection host-volatile-detection visual-location random-searching tree-searching prey-discrimination Careless-et-al.-2009 Canadian-Food-Inspection-Agency MacRae-1991 Nelson-&-MacRae-1990 Nelson-et-al.-1996 MacRae-&-Nelson-2003 MacRae-2004 MacRae-2006 Pearson-et-al.-2006 Erwin-&-Pearson-2008 field-identification morphological-characters elytral-punctation setal-patterns hump-armature hooks tiger-beetle-larvae Tetracha Cicindelidia Amblycheila Omus white-margined-pronotum eye-size head-capsule jaws burrow-sealing alien-appearance predator-avoidance prey-capture traction struggling-prey burrow-vulnerability predation-risk field-techniques grass-stem-guide soil-removal burrow-relocation tiger-beetle-experience nest-identification active-nest fresh-prey abandoned-prey dropped-prey threat-response prey-relocation nest-entrance digging-behavior prey-retrieval predictive-capacity species-identification nest-contents prey-abundance wasp-activity-decline beetle-activity-decline coincident-timing Missouri-phenology observation-period nest-excavation-method effort-comparison direct-theft prey-carrying-wasps flight-pattern-recognition thick-thoraxed-appearance slow-straight-flight erratic-dipping-flight search-image-refinement smaller-beetle-capture species-bias visual-bias larger-beetle-preference netting-technique prey-dropping-observation close-approach net-swipe escape-response abandoned-beetle-accumulation nest-entrance-accumulation digging-mixing collection-protocol nest-checking burrow-spreading knife trowel hidden-beetles maximum-count 13-individuals smallest-species site-utilization prey-size-comparison single-large-prey multiple-small-prey provisioning-logic larval-development food-adequacy prey-location-mechanism volatile-cues host-tree-volatiles mate-location-volatiles efficient-foraging repeated-tree-visitation supply-exhaustion visual-search random-search prey-passing suitable-prey-discrimination Louisiana-specimens new-state-records research-paper faunal-documentation citizen-science-network eastern-North-America survey-scope-expansion Working-with-Cerceris-fumipennis website brochure PDF correspondence eastern-entomologists ball-fields sandy-soil clay-soil cursory-attempts winter-agreement specimen-identification 500+-specimens batch-processing catalyzing-effort concerted-search museum-records generic-labels St.-Louis Columbia monthly-visits regular-grooming heavy-clay barren-soil burrow-absence stroke-of-luck bike-route knee-pain flatter-route regular-fields grooming-evidence human-use immediate-inspection numerous-burrows occupied-nest female-identification yellow-facial-markings burrow-occupancy active-digging soil-pushing flight-observation nest-departure nest-return nest-searching copula-pairs prey-absence puzzlement ground-confirmation subsequent-visits productive-method nest-population field-preference nest-clustering individual-density prize-specimens abundant-prey caddisfly-bounty UV-light-attraction feeding-behavior mandible-use maxilla-use digestive-juice-maceration juicy-pulp-consumption antennal-positioning feeding-adaptation prey-damage-prevention non-feeding-posture forward-antennae coaxing-technique stilting-absence sun-facing-absence shade-seeking-absence iconic-pose stalking-skill hot-day-requirement photographic-improvement previous-frustration distance-limitation distant-shot bronzed-tiger-beetle Cicindela-repanda common-species waterway-association habitat-infidelity soil-type-flexibility sand mud concrete larval-burrow-absence unexpected-observation population-building mid-August-peak overnight-burrow caddisfly-predation tooth-mandibles sickle-shaped prey-grabbing pulp-sucking antennal-retraction head-pronotum-positioning male-identification natural-setting charismatic-pose thermal-behavior photographic-goal Cicindela-hirticollis-shelfordi Shelford's-Hairy-necked-Tiger-Beetle stocky-build distinct-white-markings coppery-cast G-shaped-humeral-lunule C-shaped-humeral-lunule diagnostic-character lateral-profile-comparison big-river-specialty Ellipsoptera-cuprascens Coppery-Tiger-Beetle night-photography cooler-temperatures distraction-effect approachability flash-head-lamp focusing-difficulty automatic-lamp-shutoff composition-abortion hot-sand-avoidance exasperation prey-transfixion stupefaction easy-capture coarse-dense-punctures shinier-surface coppery-color rounded-elytral-apices female-distinction pointed-elytral-suture sexual-dimorphism labrum-modification mandible-modification mating-grasp pronotum-contour purchase-optimization Cape-Rock-Park sandbar-habitat Cylindera-cursitans Antlike-Tiger-Beetle search-failure rocky-embankment habitat-potential specialty-species big-river-habitats Mississippi-River Missouri-River predictable-abundance slight-difference-detection white-marking-distinctness thermal-extreme mid-morning-arrival open-space blazing-sun extreme-activity wariness barren-sandbar debris-absence shelter-absence corral-failure stubborn-persistence stalking-failure flight-response running-behavior frame-settling-impossibility front-approach intermittent-pose thermal-regulation stilting-sun-facing best-attempt composition-satisfaction closeness-desire Cicindela-repanda-similarity Cicindela-hirticollis-association wet-sand-exclusivity gestalt-development husky-build bold-markings diagnostic-certainty humeral-lunule-shape posterior-transverse anterior-angle inner-edge-curl comparative-photography trick-availability terrarium-avoidance night-collection UV-attraction Ellipsoptera-specialization coastal-fluviatile-sand Steward-Towhead New-Madrid-County previous-sighting number-abundance sheet-guarantee ground-milling thermal-overdrive-absence cool-temperature prey-abundance-distraction flash-lamp-challenge automatic-shutoff shot-abortion minor-inconvenience 12-foot-blast hot-sand-exasperation ID-Challenge-#19 commonality-deduction jewel-beetle-family genus-identification early-bird-points Cerceris-fumipennis-connection point-award species-naming Agrilaxia-misidentification A.-obsoletoguttatus-correction reared-speculation wood-source-diversity other-people-collection gift-trade-ID July-4th-coincidence early-June-actuality sphecoid-wasp-hunting nest-jackpot Missouri-origin chitin-identification 2,171-pieces salicaceous-host Salix Populus Quercus diversity same-nest-possibility harvesting-method wasp-adult-theft burrow-harvest citizen-science-program emerald-ash-borer-surveillance GIS-integration foraging-range-definition 1000-1500-meter-correlation surveillance-method-improvement municipal-tree-protection financial-impact liability-reduction Oregon-Pacific-Coast-detection western-North-America-limitation pheromone-trap-reliance substitute-absence 36-states 5-Canadian-provinces 8-billion-ash-trees 30-meter-trap-reach stealth-beetle larval-gallery phloem-destruction tree-death canopy-invisibility first-sign-mortality Indiana-origin Connecticut-arrival hair-on-fire running-around prediction-fulfillment financial-havoc management-key early-infestation-location predatory-wasp-method baseball-field-nesting aggregate-nester non-stinging packed-sand-preference access-simplicity 37-nest-sites 7-year-study 100-beetle-minimum hunting-method gathering-method net-capture prey-dropping freak-out-response immobilized-beetle scouring-method predator-disturbance kid-disturbance first-base-running deciduous-conifer-grouping 500-3500-meter-calculation proportion-correlation highest-correlation effective-range significant-increase municipal-application park-planting street-tree 20-percent-composition time-provision money-set-aside pesticide-protection selective-removal cash-strapped-decision sudden-destruction exponential-growth invisibility-comprehension Fort-Wayne-Indiana 9000-dead-trees 2011-2012 arborist-shortage straight-grained-wood baseball-bat tool-handle brittle-death limb-dropping falling-hazard 15-Michigan-deaths Pacific-Coast-arrival western-survey-limitation Annals-of-the-Entomological-Society-of-America May-publication Paige-Embry freelance-science-writer Seattle Our-Native-Bees author iNaturalist falloon-photo Johnny-N.-Dell-photo Bugwood.org Shari-Wasp-Watcher Southington-Connecticut Litchfield-detection 2014-first-detection button-hat group-photo abandoned-EAB nest-entrance-abandonment assorted-beetles Actenodes-acornis Actenodes-simi Phaenops-fulvoguttatus Agrilus-obsoletoguttatus-series bottom-row-uniformity top-row-diversity prey-size-sorting small-species-aggregation large-species-singularity developmental-nutrition larval-food-security volatile-speculation pheromone-hypothesis host-volatile-hypothesis mate-location-hypothesis efficiency-argument visual-search-argument random-search-argument prey-discrimination-argument Careless-2009-citation 16-page-brochure Working-with-Cerceris-fumipennis-Part-1 Working-with-Cerceris-fumipennis-Part-2 20-species Haplanthaxia Knulliobuprestis two-thirds-ground-picked one-third-stolen prey-dropping-explanation prey-abandonment search-relocation-absence new-beetle-search net-swipe-observation drop-and-fly vial-collection bulk-ground-location nest-entrance-concentration knife-trowel-use hidden-beetle-collection 13-A.-obsoletoguttatus-maximum digging-speculation entrance-leaving burrow-digging retrieval-return witness-absence carrying-observation direct-burrow-drop entrance-prediction species-consistency below-ground-correlation field-ball several-dozen-nests third-method nest-digging late-June early-July beetle-number-drop wasp-activity-drop seasonal-coincidence Missouri-decline-observation burrow-excavation activity-assessment fresh-prey-likelihood other-insect-burrows confusion-possibility C.-fumipennis-burrow perfectly-circular C.-bicornis weevil-specialist nearly-identical slightly-larger inconsistent-character weevil-presence buprestid-absence faster-flight more-powerful difficult-capture buprestid-presence-certainty white-plastic-tag golf-tee-security hole-rotation entrance-coverage leaving-allowance return-prevention tag-rotation-idea waspless-observation 20-30-minute-return Bembix-americana sand-wasp angle-entrance asymmetric-diggings larger-entrance sandy-portion direct-association-absence vicinity-observation Sand-Prairie-Conservation-Area Cicindelidia-punctulata Punctured-Tiger-Beetle diggings-absence rain-wind-wash D-shape-entrance jaw-resting beveling-distinctiveness C.-fumipennis-absence soil-careful-removal burrow-path-preservation stem-insertion depth-maximization soil-prying hole-coverage relocation-facilitation side-angle leveling-bottom Buprestis-rufipes-observation waspless-flight ground-B.-rufipes expected-bottom-finding Madison-MacRae-photo Agrilus-quadriguttatus-cache 7-individuals small-prey large-prey-comparison multiple-small single-large 13-A.-obsoletoguttatus smallest-site-species 5-nest-diversity single-date species-number-variation B.-rufipes-singularity A.-quadriguttatus-A.-obsoletoguttatus-mix A.-obsoletoguttatus-dominance Poecilonota-cyanipes A.-pseudofallax developmental-completion prey-location-mystery specialization-mystery host-volatile mate-volatile Careless-2009 CFA-citation nest-litter Neochlamisus east-central-Missouri case-bearing-leaf-beetles Chrysomelidae bright-coppery-coloration N.-platani sycamore-association Platanus-occidentalis 11-surface-beetles buprestid-typicality same-species underground-cache grass-stem-insertion buzzing-indication female-presence three-yellow-facial-markings seven-beetles non-buprestid-host-record Careless-website H.-bebbiana leaf-beetle weevil several-hundred-observations single-non-buprestid Louisiana-batch winter-identification nice-series rare-unseen paper-progress collection-catalysis concerted-Missouri-effort museum-specimen generic-label May-visits clay-soil barren-burrow-absence end-of-May-luck bike-route-change Chesterfield-Valley practice-field-row levee-adjacency female-sitting yellow-facial-marking return-flight prize-B.-rufipes feeding-observation maceration non-feeding-forward-antenna male-natural-setting thermal-behavior-absence soil-flexibility larval-burrow-concrete-absence blacklight-unexpectedness sickle-shape C.-hirticollis-shelfordi C-shaped-comparison coarse-dense rounded-female-apices pointed-suture-comparison labrum-mandible-modification slight-difference C.-repanda-similarity C.-hirticollis-association surveillance-improvement ash-mortality GBIF-exact-match Animalia Arthropoda Insecta Coleoptera Australasia Nearctic Neotropic Indomalaya Palearctic Afrotropic Oceania North-America-present New-Brunswick Ontario iNaturalist-Beech-Borer 382-observations Wikipedia-metallic-wood-boring-beetle North-America-found Catalogue-of-Life-accepted Gory-1841 Eukaryota Hexapoda Polyphaga Elateriformia Buprestoidea NCBI-Metazoa beetles-group GBIF-distribution-records global-presence regional-presence Canadian-provincial-records observation-count common-name-verification taxonomic-authority classification-hierarchy subfamily tribe specific-epithet subspecies-epithet-null canonical-name scientific-name authorship rank status match-type kingdom phylum class order family genus species content-generation factual-correctness-priority conservative-approach clarity-priority usefulness-priority critical-rules-adherence information-support-requirement null-return-protocol higher-taxa-inference-prohibition field-repetition-prohibition vague-generalization-avoidance cautious-language-use fabrication-prohibition field-intent-respect summary-high-level appearance-physical-only identification-distinction-focus habitat-environment-conditions distribution-geographic-only seasonality-timing-activity diet-feeding-habits lifeCycle-developmental-stages behavior-notable-actions ecologicalRole-ecosystem-function humanRelevance-interaction similarTaxa-reason-inclusion misconceptions-meaningful-only extraDetails-important-context style-rules-adherence direct-sentences fluff-avoidance taxonomy-repetition-avoidance technical-jargon-limitation concrete-statements-preference quality-rules-application completeness-assessment inferred-content-flag JSON-schema-strict-matching no-extra-fields no-external-commentary taxon-record-structured entomology-guide-format Agrilus-obsoletoguttatus-specific available-knowledge-integration field-support-evaluation supported-content-inclusion unsupported-content-nullification unique-content-per-field non-overlapping-information conservative-inference explicit-justification-requirement species-level-trait-caution higher-taxa-generalization-avoidance factual-accuracy-maintenance informative-content-delivery conservative-completeness-rating medium-completeness-assessment partial-reliable-data sparse-data-avoidance inferred-content-false direct-observation-reliance published-source-reliance expert-correspondence-consideration geographic-range-documentation seasonal-activity-documentation predator-prey-relationship-documentation size-comparison-documentation nest-provisioning-documentation collection-method-documentation researcher-observation-documentation Ted-MacRae-field-work Claire-Rutledge-study citizen-science-integration biosurveillance-application invasive-species-detection-context emerald-ash-borer-comparison small-size-characteristic multiple-prey-per-nest-characteristic late-spring-early-summer-activity North-American-distribution wood-boring-habit-inference host-plant-inference beech-association Fagus-inference common-name-interpretation ecological-role-inference nutrient-cycling-contribution predator-support-role human-relevance-inference indirect-surveillance-tool-support similar-species-differentiation Agrilus-quadriguttatus-comparison Agrilus-politus-comparison Agrilus-pseudofallax-comparison size-and-co-occurrence-basis misconceptions-absence extra-details-absence conservative-field-completion null-for-unsupported appearance-unsupported diet-unsupported-direct lifeCycle-unsupported-detail comprehensiveness-evaluation medium-rating-justification most-fields-well-supported-absence partial-reliable-data-presence inferred-content-flag-false direct-observation-basis no-generalization-employed strict-schema-adherence final-JSON-output-preparation review-for-compliance verification-against-rules confirmation-of-no-repetition confirmation-of-no-inference confirmation-of-no-fabrication confirmation-of-cautious-language confirmation-of-concrete-statements confirmation-of-field-focus confirmation-of-quality-assessment ready-for-output-generation
Altica chalybea
Grape Flea Beetle, Grape Steely Beetle
Altica chalybea, commonly known as the grape flea beetle or grape steely beetle, is a North American leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is recognized by its small bluish-green metallic coloration and reflective appearance. It is a documented pest of cultivated grape vines, where adults feed on buds and cause measurable reduction in vegetative growth. The species is distributed across North America and the Caribbean.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle flea-beetle agricultural-pest grape-pest North-America metallic-coloration
Altica ignita
strawberry flea beetle
Altica ignita, commonly known as the strawberry flea beetle, is a flea beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae. It occurs in North America. As a member of the genus Altica, it shares the characteristic enlarged hind femora that enable flea beetles to jump when disturbed. The common name suggests an association with strawberry plants, though specific host relationships require confirmation.
flea-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera strawberry-flea-beetle North-America Altica jumping-beetle leaf-beetle
Altica pedipallida
Altica pedipallida is a flea beetle in the tribe Alticini described by LeSage in 2008. The species is known from eastern Canada (Ontario and Québec) and has been documented with a larval host association with Oenothera pilosella (Onagraceae), representing the first recorded host plant for this species. Like other members of the genus Altica, adults likely feed on foliage of host plants.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini host-plant-association Oenothera Onagraceae Canada Ontario Québec
Altica texana
Altica texana is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Schaeffer in 1906. It belongs to the genus Altica, a large group of small, jumping leaf beetles commonly known as flea beetles due to their enlarged hind femora that enable them to leap when disturbed. The species is recorded from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented.
Chrysomelidae Alticini flea-beetle leaf-beetle Coleoptera North-America
Amblycerus robiniae
Locust Seed Beetle
Amblycerus robiniae is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the locust seed beetle. The species is distributed across North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, Ontario) and the United States (Vermont). As a member of the genus Amblycerus, it is associated with leguminous host plants, particularly species in the genus Robinia.
seed-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Robinia North-America
Anisostena ariadne
Anisostena ariadne is a species of hispine leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Newman in 1841. Adults measure 4.6–5.3 mm in length and are characterized by black elytra with a purple iridescent hue. The species has been documented feeding on switchgrass (Panicum virgatum). It is widely distributed across the eastern and central United States, with records from 18 states and the District of Columbia.
hispine leaf-beetle prairie grass-specialist
Anisostena cyanea
Anisostena cyanea is a small leaf beetle in the subfamily Hispinae, first described by Staines in 1994. The species has been recorded from Arizona and Texas in the southwestern United States, and from Mexico. Adults have been collected on several species of Bothriochloa grasses, though whether these represent true host plants remains uncertain.
leaf-beetle Hispinae Chrysomelidae Arizona Texas Mexico Bothriochloa
Anisostena gracilis
Anisostena gracilis is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae (tortoise beetles and allies). Adults measure approximately 3–3.7 mm in length and are distinguished by orange-red or yellowish coloration with a black sutural stripe. The species has been documented feeding on Panicum maximum (guinea grass). It occurs in the southwestern United States and Mexico.
leaf-beetle Cassidinae tortoise-beetle grass-feeder Neotropical Nearctic
Anisostena kansana
Anisostena kansana is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, specifically within the tortoise beetle subfamily Cassidinae. Adults measure 4.1–5.3 mm and display distinctive metallic coloration: the head and elytra are greenish-blue, while the pronotum is reddish-orange with a greenish-blue anterior area. The species is known from a limited geographic range in the central United States, with records from Kansas, Mississippi, Missouri, and Oklahoma. It has been documented feeding on Tripsacum dactyloides (eastern gamagrass).
leaf-beetle Cassidinae tortoise-beetle hispine prairie grassland Tripsacum metallic-coloration central-United-States Kansas Missouri Oklahoma Mississippi
Anisostena lecontii
Anisostena lecontii is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, known from the southeastern United States. Adults measure approximately 4.6–4.8 mm in length and exhibit distinctive coloration with a black head and elytra contrasting with a red pronotum that has black basal and apical margins. The species has been recorded from Florida, South Carolina, and Virginia. Adults have been collected on Panicum repens, though whether this grass serves as the actual food plant remains uncertain.
leaf-beetle hispine southeastern-US-endemic
Anisostena nigrita
black tortoise beetle
Anisostena nigrita, commonly known as the black tortoise beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It has been recorded across a broad geographic range in North America, from Canada to the southern United States. The species has been observed feeding on grasses in the genus Andropogon and Schizachyrium scoparium. It belongs to the tortoise beetle subfamily Cassidinae, characterized by a body form adapted for clinging to leaf surfaces.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle grass-feeder North-American
Anisostena texana
A small hispine leaf beetle in the subfamily Cassidinae, measuring 4.1-4.6 mm. Adults display distinctive metallic blue elytra and head contrasting with a reddish-orange pronotum. The species occurs in the south-central United States and Mexico, where adults have been collected from prairie vegetation.
leaf-beetle hispine prairie Cassidinae metallic-coloration
Anomoea
Anomoea is a genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, family Chrysomelidae. The genus name is frequently confused with the tephritid fly genus Anomoia due to historical nomenclatural confusion. The genus includes species such as Anomoea flavokansiensis, which has been studied as a herbivore of leguminous plants in agricultural systems.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae herbivore agricultural-pest polyculture-management
Anomoea flavokansiensis
Anomoea flavokansiensis is a case-bearing leaf beetle (Chrysomelidae) described by Moldenke in 1970. It is known from North America and has been studied as a herbivore of the legume Desmanthus illinoensis, where high population densities can potentially reduce seed yield. Research has examined its overwintering biology and the effects of agricultural polyculture on its population density.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae case-bearing herbivore agricultural-pest North-America Desmanthus-illinoensis polyculture perennial-grain-agriculture
Anomoea laticlavia
Clay-colored Leaf Beetle, Persimmon Beetle
Anomoea laticlavia is a case-bearing leaf beetle native to central and eastern North America. Adults measure 7–12 mm and display distinctive reddish-brown elytra with a variable-width black suture. The species belongs to the unranked taxon Camptosomata, characterized by larvae that construct portable cases from fecal material and shed skins. Adults feed on leaves of various host plants including legumes, persimmons, oaks, willows, and ragweed, while larvae are subterranean root or litter feeders. Some Florida populations have been recognized as a distinct subspecies.
Chrysomelidae Camptosomata case-bearing-leaf-beetle leaf-beetle North-America herbivore subterranean-larvae
Anomoea nitidicollis crassicornis
Anomoea nitidicollis crassicornis is a subspecies of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Schaeffer in 1933. It belongs to a genus within a family known for herbivorous feeding habits on plant foliage. The subspecies is recorded from North America and Middle America, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in available literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae subspecies North-America Middle-America
Anomoea nitidicollis nitidicollis
Anomoea nitidicollis nitidicollis is a subspecies of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, tribe Clytrini. Members of this genus are associated with host plants in the family Asteraceae. The nominate subspecies occurs in North and Middle America. As with other clytrine beetles, adults are likely flower visitors and larvae develop in association with plant material.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Clytrini leaf-beetle flower-beetle North-America Middle-America Asteraceae-associates
Anomoea rufifrons occidentimutabilis
A subspecies of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Described by Moldenke in 1970 from western North American populations of Anomoea rufifrons. The subspecific epithet "occidentimutabilis" suggests variability in western populations. Like other members of the genus, adults are associated with woody vegetation and are case-bearers in the larval stage.
leaf-beetle Cryptocephalinae case-bearer western-North-America southwestern-US Moldenke-1970
Aphthona cyparissiae
brown dot leafy spurge flea beetle
Aphthona cyparissiae is a small leaf beetle native to Europe, introduced to North America as a biological control agent for leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), a noxious invasive weed. Adults feed on leaves and flowers, while larvae feed on roots and root hairs, with heavy infestations capable of killing host plants. The species was first released in Wyoming in 1986 and has since established populations across much of the northern United States and Canada. It is a spurge specialist, preferring cypress spurge (Euphorbia cyparissias) in its native range.
biological-control leaf-beetle invasive-species-management weed-biocontrol Chrysomelidae
Aulacoscelis candezei
Aulacoscelis candezei is a leaf beetle species in the family Orsodacnidae, described by Chapuis in 1874. It is one of relatively few species in this small family of beetles. The species has been documented in Central America and North America, though detailed biological information remains limited.
leaf-beetle Orsodacnidae Central-America North-America
Aulacothorax copalina
Copal Flea Beetle
Aulacothorax copalina, commonly known as the Copal Flea Beetle, is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was formerly classified under the genus Orthaltica but has been reassigned to Aulacothorax based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. It is endemic to North America and has been documented in 131 iNaturalist observations.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae flea-beetle North-America taxonomic-revision formerly-Orthaltica
Aulacothorax melina
poison ivy leaf beetle
Aulacothorax melina is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the poison ivy leaf beetle. The species was formerly placed in the genus Orthaltica but has been reclassified to Aulacothorax. It is native to North America and is associated with poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) as a host plant. The beetle is one of relatively few insects that can feed on poison ivy, which contains urushiol, a compound that causes allergic reactions in most humans and deters many herbivores.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae poison-ivy Toxicodendron North-America urushiol-tolerance
Aulacothorax recticollis
Aulacothorax recticollis is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was formerly placed in the genus Orthaltica but has been reclassified to Aulacothorax. It occurs across Central America and North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented in the scientific literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae formerly-Orthaltica North-America Central-America
Baliosus californicus
Baliosus californicus is a leaf-mining tortoise beetle (Cassidinae) in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is found in western North America and Mexico, where adults feed on various Ceanothus species. It was described by Horn in 1883 and is characterized by distinctive elytral punctation and costate interspaces.
Chrysomelidae Cassidinae leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle hispine Ceanothus western-North-America herbivore
Baliosus ferrugineus
Baliosus ferrugineus is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. It was described by Staines in 2006. The species is known from North America, with records from Arizona. Like other members of the genus Baliosus, it belongs to the tribe Chalepini, a group of tortoise beetles characterized by their flattened, often expanded bodies and association with host plants.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle Chrysomelidae Cassidinae Chalepini North-America Arizona
Baliosus nervosus
Basswood Leafminer, basswood leaf miner
Baliosus nervosus is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the basswood leafminer. It is native to North America and has been recorded from eastern Canada including New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The species is associated with basswood (Tilia spp.) as its primary host, with adults skeletonizing leaf surfaces and larvae creating leaf mines. It has also been observed mining soybean leaves.
leaf-beetle leaf-miner pest North-America
Bassareus brunnipes
Bassareus brunnipes is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. The species belongs to the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, whose larvae construct protective cases from fecal material and exuviae.
beetle leaf-beetle case-bearing North-America
Bassareus detritus
Bassareus detritus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. The species belongs to a genus of small leaf beetles, with 'detritus' possibly referring to its association with decaying plant material.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America
Bassareus mammifer
Red-Banded Bassar
Bassareus mammifer is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the Red-Banded Bassar. The species is characterized by its distinctive red banding pattern and is found across North America, with documented records from Canada and the United States. As a member of the Cryptocephalinae subfamily, larvae construct protective cases from fecal material and shed exoskeletons.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-American-beetle
Blepharida
Blepharida is a genus of flea beetles in the subfamily Galerucinae, tribe Alticini, comprising approximately 73 described species. The genus is notable for its specialized coevolutionary relationship with plants in the genus Bursera. New World and Afrotropical species form distinct clades, and the supraspecific taxonomy has undergone extensive revision with multiple subgenera and related genera proposed and reorganized over the past century.
leaf-beetle flea-beetle coevolution Burseraceae herbivory plant-defense taxonomic-revision
Brachycoryna dolorosa
Brachycoryna dolorosa is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. Adults measure 2.1–3.1 mm in length. The species is known from western North America, with records from California, Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Washington. Adults have been collected from several plant species including Media elegans, Media sativa, Holocarpha heermannii, Hemizona species, and Ceanothus cuneatus, though the actual foodplant remains unknown.
leaf-beetle Cassidinae tortoise-beetle-ally western-North-America
Brachycoryna hardyi
Brachycoryna hardyi is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. It measures 2.5–3.7 mm as an adult and exhibits variable coloration with reddish-yellow and black patterning. The species has been recorded feeding on three Ceanothus species and occurs across western North America from Canada to Mexico.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cassidinae Ceanothus western-North-America
Brachycoryna pumila
Brachycoryna pumila is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Guérin-Méneville in 1844. Adults measure 2.5–3.5 mm in length and exhibit distinctive coloration: black head, brownish-yellow pronotum, and yellow elytra with variable brown markings. The species has been recorded feeding on several plants in the family Malvaceae. Its distribution spans from the southern United States through Mexico and Central America to northern South America, including Caribbean islands.
leaf-beetle Cassidinae Malvaceae herbivore Neotropical Nearctic
Brachypnoea convexa
Brachypnoea convexa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, found in the Eastern United States. First described by Thomas Say in 1824, this species belongs to a genus of small leaf beetles. Very little has been published regarding its biology, ecology, or specific habitat requirements.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eastern-United-States Coleoptera
Brachypnoea lecontei
Texas Live Oak Leaf Beetle
Brachypnoea lecontei is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was described in 2003 following taxonomic revision of LeConte's original 1858 specimen, which had been synonymized with Brachypnoea puncticollis until genetic and morphological study of type material confirmed its distinct status. It is found in the Great Plains of the United States and has a documented association with Texas live oak.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Great-Plains oak-feeder Quercus-fusiformis taxonomic-revision nomenclatural-change
Brachypnoea rotundicollis
Brachypnoea rotundicollis is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by American entomologist Charles Frederic August Schaeffer in 1906. The species has a restricted distribution in southeastern Texas, with only 11 documented observations. Little is known about its biology or ecology beyond basic taxonomic and distributional records.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Texas-endemic Schaeffer-1906
Brachypnoea texana
Brachypnoea texana is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is endemic to the Edwards Plateau in Texas, with a restricted geographic range. The species was first described by American entomologist Charles Frederic August Schaeffer in 1919. Limited information is available regarding its biology and ecology.
leaf-beetle endemic Texas Edwards-Plateau Chrysomelidae
Bromius obscurus
Western Grape Rootworm, Brown and Black Beetle
Bromius obscurus is a small leaf beetle (Chrysomelidae: Eumolpinae) and the sole member of its genus. It is a Holarctic species with a notable geographic parthenogenesis pattern: North American populations reproduce sexually while European populations are triploid and reproduce asexually. The species is recognized as a pest of grape vines in Europe and western North America. Adults possess a stridulatory apparatus on the wings, the first documented in the subfamily Eumolpinae.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae grape-pest parthenogenesis geographic-parthenogenesis Holarctic symbiotic-bacteria stridulation vineyard-pest
Brucita
Brucita is a genus of skeletonizing leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, established by Wilcox in 1965. The genus contains a single described species, Brucita marmorata. These beetles are known from limited localities in Texas (USA) and Guatemala.
monotypic leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle Chrysomelidae
Brucita marmorata
Marbled Palm Forest Leaf Beetle
Brucita marmorata is the sole described species in the genus Brucita, a group of skeletonizing leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is known from Texas in the United States and Guatemala in Central America. The common name "Marbled Palm Forest Leaf Beetle" suggests association with palm forest habitats, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle monotypic-genus Texas Guatemala Nearctic Neotropical
Cadiz
Cadiz is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, established by Andrews and Gilbert in 1992. The genus is distinguished by its placement within the diverse leaf beetle family, which contains numerous species associated with herbivory on vascular plants. Information regarding the specific morphology, species diversity, and ecological preferences of Cadiz remains limited in available literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera Andrews-&-Gilbert-1992
Calligrapha alni
Russet Alder Leaf Beetle
Calligrapha alni, the russet alder leaf beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae found in North America. The common name indicates an association with alder (Alnus spp.), though specific host plant details are limited in available sources. Like other members of the genus Calligrapha, it likely exhibits high host specificity, a trait characteristic of this northeastern North American genus.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Calligrapha North-America herbivore alder riparian
Calligrapha amator
Ontario Calligrapha
Calligrapha amator, commonly known as the Ontario Calligrapha, is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by W.J. Brown in 1945. The species is found in North America, with confirmed records from Ontario and Québec in Canada.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Canada Ontario Québec
Calligrapha apicalis
Calligrapha apicalis is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Notman in 1919. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from Ontario and Québec in Canada. Like other members of the genus Calligrapha, it likely exhibits the characteristic dome-like body shape and patterned elytra typical of this group.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Canada Ontario Québec
Calligrapha diversa
Calligrapha diversa is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Carl Stål in 1859. It belongs to the C. argus species group, characterized by distinctive elytral patterning including a single spot enclosed by humeral lunule and a complete arcuate band laterally confluent with a subsutural stripe. The species has one of the largest geographic ranges in its group, extending from the southwestern United States through Central America to northern South America. It has been recorded feeding on plants in the families Malvaceae and Solanaceae.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae phytophagous Malvaceae Solanaceae Neotropical Nearctic
Calligrapha dolosa
Calligrapha dolosa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by W.J. Brown in 1945. It belongs to a genus known for highly host-specific feeding relationships with particular plant genera. The species is recorded from eastern Canada, specifically Ontario and Québec. Like other members of Calligrapha, it likely exhibits the genus-characteristic dome-shaped body and patterned elytra, though specific diagnostic features for this species remain poorly documented in accessible literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Canada host-specific understudied
Calligrapha floridana
Calligrapha floridana is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Schaeffer in 1934. The species is found in North America. Like other members of the genus Calligrapha, it likely exhibits the characteristic dome-shaped body and distinctive elytral patterning for which the genus is named. Information specific to this species is limited.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America host-specific phytophagous
Calligrapha fulvipes
Calligrapha fulvipes is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Stål in 1859. The genus Calligrapha is characterized by dome-like body shape and distinctive coloration patterns of black with white or red markings. Species within this genus are among the most host-specific phytophagous beetles, with most species relying on a single plant genus as host. The specific host associations and detailed biology of C. fulvipes are not well documented in available sources.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Calligrapha North-America Middle-America phytophagous host-specific
Calligrapha knabi
Calligrapha knabi is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Brown in 1940. The species is known from North America, with distribution records from the Canadian provinces of Manitoba, Ontario, and Québec. Like other members of the genus Calligrapha, it exhibits the characteristic dome-like body shape and patterned elytra typical of this group of leaf beetles. Information on specific host plants, appearance details, and life history for this particular species remains limited in available sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Canada
Calligrapha lunata
Moon-marked Leaf Beetle
Calligrapha lunata, commonly known as the moon-marked leaf beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is found in North America, with records from multiple Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. As a member of the genus Calligrapha, it likely exhibits the dome-shaped body form and distinctive elytral patterning characteristic of this group.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America moon-marked-leaf-beetle
Calligrapha multipunctata
common willow calligrapha, Common Willow Calligrapher Beetle
Calligrapha multipunctata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the common willow calligrapha. The species is native to North America and is associated with willow (Salix) as a host plant. Like other members of the genus Calligrapha, it exhibits distinctive elytral patterning. Three subspecies have been described, though one (C. m. suturella) may represent a separate species.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle willow Salix North-America herbivore host-specific
Calligrapha philadelphica
Dogwood Leaf Beetle, dogwood calligrapha
Calligrapha philadelphica is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is known by the common names dogwood leaf beetle and dogwood calligrapha. The species is found in North America, with records from Canada and the United States. Like other members of the genus Calligrapha, it is associated with dogwood (Cornus spp.) as its host plant.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae dogwood Cornus North-America host-specific Doryphorini
Calligrapha pnirsa
leaf beetle
Calligrapha pnirsa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, found in North America. It is a univoltine species with adults emerging in spring to feed, mate, and oviposit on host plant foliage. Larvae develop through multiple instars feeding on leaves before dropping to the soil to pupate. New adults emerge in late summer, feed briefly, and overwinter to complete the annual cycle. Like other members of the genus Calligrapha, it exhibits strong host plant specificity.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle herbivore univoltine North-America host-specific
Calligrapha praecelsis
Calligrapha praecelsis is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Rogers in 1856. It belongs to the genus Calligrapha, a group known for their distinctive, often ornate elytral markings. The species is found in North America, with records from Manitoba, Canada. Very few observations of this species have been documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America rarely-observed
Calligrapha pruni
Calligrapha pruni is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by W.J. Brown in 1945. It is found in North America, with records from Ontario and Québec in Canada. Like other members of the genus Calligrapha, it is likely a host specialist, though specific host plant associations for this species are not documented in the provided sources.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle North-America host-specialist
Calligrapha rhoda
Calligrapha rhoda is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, occurring in North America. It is part of a genus known for extreme host specificity, with most species feeding on a single plant genus. This species closely resembles Calligrapha spiraeae and Calligrapha rowena in appearance, but is distinguished by its association with hazel (Corylus spp.) rather than ninebark or dogwood. Like other Calligrapha species, it exhibits reddish coloration with small black spots on the elytra.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle host-specific North-America Corylus
Calligrapha rowena
Rowena's Leaf Beetle
Calligrapha rowena is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, found in North America. It is one of approximately 38 species in the genus Calligrapha, a group characterized by dome-like body shape and distinctive black and white or red coloration with variable elytral markings. The species is closely associated with hazel (Corylus spp.) as its host plant. It closely resembles C. spiraeae and C. rhoda but can be distinguished by its host plant association.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America host-specific hazel-feeder
Calligrapha spiraeae
Ninebark Calligrapha Beetle
A leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae that is highly host-specific to ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius). The species was described by Say in 1826 based on specimens collected from ninebark, which was then classified under the genus Spiraea—hence the species epithet spiraeae. Adults are reddish with small black spots on the elytra and are readily found on their host plant throughout the growing season. The species is notable among Calligrapha for its strict monophagy, utilizing no other known host plant besides ninebark.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle monophagy host-specific ninebark Physocarpus North-America Coleoptera
Calligrapha verrucosa
Calligrapha verrucosa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America, with records from western Canada including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. As a member of the genus Calligrapha, it likely exhibits the characteristic dome-shaped body and distinctive elytral markings typical of the group, though specific morphological details for this species are poorly documented in the provided sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Chrysomelinae North-America Canada
Calligrapha vicina
Calligrapha vicina is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by C. Schaeffer in 1933. It occurs in northeastern North America, with records from New Brunswick, Ontario, and Québec in Canada. Like other members of its genus, it likely exhibits strong host plant specificity, though its specific host associations remain undocumented. The genus Calligrapha is characterized by dome-shaped bodies and distinctive black and white or reddish color patterns on the elytra.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America host-specific phytophagous
Calligrapha wickhami
Calligrapha wickhami is a leaf beetle species in the subgenus Erythrographa (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae, Chrysomelinae), distinguished by reddish testaceous coloration extending to dark body parts including elytral markings. It is the only species in this subgenus not found in Mexico, being restricted to southern Texas. The subgenus Erythrographa is endemic to Central America and particularly diverse in the Mexican Transition Zone between the Nearctic and Neotropical realms.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Chrysomelinae Erythrographa Texas-endemic subgenus-endemic Mexican-Transition-Zone
Capraita circumdata
Capraita circumdata is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is endemic to North America, with confirmed records from Ontario, Québec, and other parts of Canada and the United States. The species belongs to a genus of leaf-feeding beetles that typically specialize on particular host plants.
Chrysomelidae flea-beetle leaf-beetle North-America endemic
Cassida flaveola
pale tortoise beetle
Cassida flaveola, known as the pale tortoise beetle, is a brownish leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was historically considered an introduced Palearctic species in North America, but recent evidence indicates it is at least in part native with a Holarctic distribution. The species has been newly recorded in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island in the Maritime Provinces of Canada.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle Cassidinae Chrysomelidae Caryophyllaceae herbivore Holarctic Palearctic
Cassida piperata
Small Tortoise Beetle, tortoise beetle
Cassida piperata is a tortoise beetle in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. Native to eastern Asia, it has been introduced to North America and Europe, with established populations in northern Italy since 2021. It serves as a host for the parasitoid wasp Holcotetrastichus rhosaces in Japan.
tortoise-beetle leaf-beetle non-native-species invasive-potential parasitoid-host
Cassida relicta
Pink Plains Cassidine
Cassida relicta is a species of tortoise beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. It is found in North America and is commonly known as the Pink Plains Cassidine. Like other tortoise beetles, it possesses a flattened, shield-like body form with the head capable of being drawn beneath the pronotum for protection. The species was described by Spaeth in 1927.
tortoise-beetle leaf-beetle Cassidinae North-America Cassida
Cassida rubiginosa
Thistle Tortoise Beetle
Cassida rubiginosa, commonly known as the thistle tortoise beetle, is a leaf beetle in the subfamily Cassidinae native to Europe and Asia that has been introduced to North America, New Zealand, and other regions as a biological control agent for invasive thistles. The beetle derives its common name from the tortoise-like appearance of adults, whose elytra and pronotum form a shield-like covering over the body. Both adults and larvae feed on thistle foliage, with larvae possessing a distinctive defensive structure—a forked caudal appendage used to carry accumulated feces and exuviae as a mobile 'fecal shield' that deters predators. The species has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing thistle biomass and seed production, though its host range extends beyond the primary target to other Cardueae species.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle biological-control thistle invasive-weed-management defensive-behavior fecal-shield Chrysomelidae Cassidinae herbivore introduced-species Palaearctic-native
Cerotoma
bean leaf beetles
Cerotoma is a genus of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) containing approximately seven described species distributed across North America and the Neotropics. The genus is best known for Cerotoma trifurcata, commonly called the bean leaf beetle, a significant agricultural pest of soybean and common bean. Adults feed on foliage and pods, while larvae feed on roots and root nodules. The genus exhibits strong host associations with leguminous plants.
agricultural-pest soybean-pest leaf-beetle legume-feeder Chrysomelidae neonicotinoid-target early-season-pest root-feeder defoliator North-America Neotropics
Cerotoma atrofasciata
Bean Leaf Beetle
Cerotoma atrofasciata is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It occurs in Central America and North America. The genus Cerotoma includes species associated with leguminous plants, particularly soybeans.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cerotoma agricultural-pest legume-associated
Cerotoma ruficornis
bean leaf beetle
Cerotoma ruficornis is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the bean leaf beetle. It is found across the Caribbean, Central America, and North America. Two subspecies are recognized: C. r. ruficornis and C. r. sexpunctata. The species is associated with soybean agriculture and has been studied alongside the related C. trifurcata as a pest of legume crops.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle agricultural-pest soybean-pest bean-pest legume-feeder North-America Central-America Caribbean
Chaetocnema
flea beetles
Chaetocnema is a large genus of flea beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, comprising approximately 470 described species worldwide. Members are small, jumping leaf beetles that feed on plant foliage. Several species are economically significant agricultural pests, including the corn flea beetle (C. pulicaria), which vectors Stewart's wilt disease in corn, and C. confinis, which attacks sweet potatoes. The genus exhibits broad geographic distribution across multiple continents with diverse host plant associations.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle agricultural-pest Stewart's-wilt-vector jumping-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticinae
Chaetocnema densa
Chaetocnema densa is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by R. White in 1996. The species belongs to the genus Chaetocnema, which comprises small leaf beetles known for their jumping ability. Very little specific information is available about this particular species beyond its taxonomic description and North American distribution. Like other members of the genus, it likely feeds on plant foliage, though host associations have not been documented.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini North-America R.-White-1996 small-size underdocumented
Chaetocnema fuscata
Chaetocnema fuscata is a flea beetle (subfamily Alticinae) in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. It was described by R. White in 1996 as part of his revision of the genus Chaetocnema in North America. The species is known from North America, with records from Ontario, Canada. Like other members of the genus, it is among the smallest flea beetles, with adults typically measuring 1–2 mm in length. The genus Chaetocnema includes several species associated with specific host plants, though detailed biological information for C. fuscata specifically remains limited.
flea-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini North-America Ontario small-beetle leaf-beetle R.-White-1996 poorly-known-species
Chaetocnema gentneri
Chaetocnema gentneri is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Csiki in 1940. The genus Chaetocnema contains numerous small leaf-feeding beetles, many of which are associated with specific host plants. Several congeners, such as C. quadricollis and C. pulicaria, are economically significant agricultural pests.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini North-America
Chalepus bicolor
Chalepus bicolor is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. It is widely distributed across eastern North America, ranging from Ontario, Canada southward throughout the eastern and central United States. Adults are small beetles, measuring 6.3–7.6 mm in length, with distinctive coloration featuring a red pronotum and dark elytra. The species has been documented feeding on several grass species in the genus Dichanthelium and Panicum.
leaf-beetle Cassidinae tortoise-beetle grass-feeder eastern-North-America
Charidotella emarginata
Charidotella emarginata is a species of tortoise beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in Central America and North America. As a member of the tortoise beetle subfamily Cassidinae, it possesses the characteristic shield-like body form and expanded elytral margins that cover the legs and much of the body when at rest.
tortoise-beetle Cassidinae Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Central-America North-America
Charidotella succinea
tortoise beetle
Charidotella succinea is a tortoise beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species has been documented in Central America and North America based on occurrence records. As a member of the Cassidinae subfamily, it possesses the expanded elytra and pronotum characteristic of this group.
tortoise-beetle leaf-beetle Cassidinae Cassidini
Chelymorpha cassidea
Argus tortoise beetle, milkweed tortoise beetle
Chelymorpha cassidea is a large tortoise beetle native to North America and the Caribbean, measuring 9–12 mm in length. Adults display variable coloration from yellow to bright red with black spots, and possess a distinctive ability to extend their red head beyond the pronotum, creating an appearance likened to the mythological figure Argus. Both larvae and adults feed on foliage of Convolvulaceae plants, including morning glory and sweet potato, and are capable of defoliating entire plants. The species overwinters as pupae in soil and emerges in mid-summer.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle defoliator Convolvulaceae pest aposematic-coloration alkaloid-sequestration
Chelymorpha phytophagica
Chelymorpha phytophagica is a species of tortoise beetle in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. The species is distributed across Central America and North America. Two subspecies are recognized: C. p. luteata and C. p. phytophagica. Like other members of the genus Chelymorpha, this species is associated with plants in the family Convolvulaceae, including morning glories and related vines.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle Cassidinae Convolvulaceae morning-glory phytophagous Central-America North-America
Chrysochus
dogbane leaf beetles, milkweed beetles
Chrysochus is a genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Eumolpinae, established in 1836 by Louis Alexandre Auguste Chevrolat. The genus name derives from Greek χρυσοχόος, meaning 'goldsmith,' referencing the striking metallic coloration of its members. The genus contains at least eight described species distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia, with six species in the Palearctic realm and two in North America. Species in this genus are specialized herbivores of plants in the dogbane and milkweed families (Apocynaceae and Asclepiadaceae).
leaf-beetle metallic-coloration chemical-defense host-specialization Apocynaceae Asclepiadaceae cardenolide-sequestration biological-control-potential native-pollinator-habitat
Chrysochus auratus
Dogbane Leaf Beetle, Dogbane Beetle
Chrysochus auratus is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, notable for its striking iridescent blue-green coloration with coppery or golden metallic highlights. This beetle is strictly associated with dogbane plants (Apocynum spp.), feeding on leaves as adults and roots as larvae. It has evolved specialized physiological and behavioral adaptations to overcome the toxic cardenolide defenses of its host plants, including a modified Na+/K+-ATPase enzyme that allows it to process and even sequester these compounds for its own chemical defense against predators.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae dogbane Apocynum iridescent metallic cardenolide-sequestration host-specialization biological-control hybrid-zone coevolution
Chrysochus cobaltinus
Cobalt Milkweed Beetle, Blue Milkweed Beetle
Chrysochus cobaltinus is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, notable for its iridescent cobalt-blue coloration and specialized association with milkweed and dogbane plants. The species sequesters toxic cardenolides from its host plants for chemical defense against predators. Adults emerge in early summer and remain on host plants for approximately six weeks. The species exhibits polygamous mating with extended post-copulatory mate guarding by males, and hybridizes with its sister species C. auratus in narrow contact zones.
leaf-beetle milkweed dogbane cardenolide chemical-defense sequestration polygamy mate-guarding hybridization host-race western-North-America
Chrysodinopsis basalis
Chrysodinopsis basalis is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Jacoby in 1890. The species occurs in North and Middle America. Very few observations of this species exist in public databases, with only one iNaturalist record documented. As a member of the Chrysomelidae, it is part of a large family of herbivorous beetles commonly known as leaf beetles, though specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Middle-America data-deficient
Chrysolina basilaris
Chrysolina basilaris is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Thomas Say in 1824. The species occurs in North America, with records from western Canada including Alberta, British Columbia, and Yukon Territory. As a member of the genus Chrysolina, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles known for feeding on various plants, though specific details for this species are limited.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America western-Canada Coleoptera
Chrysolina fastuosa
Chrysolina fastuosa is a small (5.0–6.0 mm), univoltine leaf beetle native to the Palearctic Region, ranging from eastern Siberia to western Europe. First North American records document established populations in Nova Scotia, Canada and Vermont, USA, separated by over 900 km. The species is distinguished by bright metallic green coloration with blue at the elytral suture and often orange median longitudinal areas on the elytra. It feeds on Lamiaceae, particularly Galeopsis species, and has the potential to spread across the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Lamiaceae-feeder adventive-species invasive-potential biological-control metallic-coloration univoltine Palearctic-native North-America-introduction
Chrysolina flavomarginata
Yellow-margined Leaf Beetle
Chrysolina flavomarginata is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America, with records from the United States and Canada. The species is active in fall, which is unusual among jewel beetles. It has been observed on yellow flowers of the Asteraceae family.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America fall-active herbivore
Chrysolina hyperici
Saint John's Wort Beetle, St. Johnswort Beetle, Klamathweed Beetle
Chrysolina hyperici is a leaf-feeding chrysomelid beetle native to Europe and Asia, widely introduced as a biological control agent for invasive St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum). The species has been established in North America, Australia, and other regions where its host plant has become problematic. Populations are often transient and alone do not provide sustained weed suppression, though the beetle can mechanically vector a host-specific fungal pathogen that enhances control effectiveness.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle biological-control Hypericum-perforatum St.-John's-wort Klamath-weed invasive-species-management mechanical-vector estivation
Chrysolina marginata
Margined Leaf Beetle
Chrysolina marginata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Linnaeus in 1758. The species has been recorded in Europe, Northern Asia, and North America, though its taxonomic status is marked as doubtful in some databases. As a member of the genus Chrysolina, it belongs to a diverse group of leaf beetles commonly associated with herbaceous vegetation.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Chrysolina Linnaeus-1758 Europe North-America
Chrysolina quadrigemina
greater St. John's wort beetle, St. John's wort beetle
Chrysolina quadrigemina is a leaf beetle introduced to North America as a biological control agent for the invasive weed Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort). Native to Europe and North Africa, this beetle has established populations across western North America and has been introduced to Australia. Adults and larvae feed exclusively on Hypericum species, with documented spillover onto native congeners such as H. punctatum in the eastern United States. The beetle exhibits a univoltine life cycle with adults active in summer, and shows evidence of post-colonization adaptation to colder climates in northern populations.
biological-control invasive-species Hypericum leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae classical-biocontrol non-target-effects post-colonization-adaptation univoltine aestivation vector plant-pathogen
Chrysolina schaefferi
Chrysolina schaefferi is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Brown in 1962. The species is known from North America. As a member of the genus Chrysolina, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles commonly associated with herbaceous plants, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented. The species appears to be rarely collected, with limited observation records available.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera Chrysolina
Chrysolina staphylaea
brown leaf beetle
Chrysolina staphylaea is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to Europe. It has been introduced to Eastern Canada, with the first record from Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1897. The species is characterized by a reddish-brown body coloration. It is commonly known as the brown leaf beetle.
leaf-beetle introduced-species Canada Europe
Chrysolina subsulcata
Chrysolina subsulcata is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Mannerheim in 1853. It has a Holarctic distribution, occurring across Europe, Northern Asia (excluding China), and North America. The species is one of approximately 150 recognized species in the genus Chrysolina, a group of leaf beetles often associated with specific host plants.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Holarctic Coleoptera
Chrysolina varians
Chrysolina varians is a leaf beetle species native to Europe and the sole member of the subgenus Sphaeromela within the genus Chrysolina. It has been introduced to Australia and North America. The species is part of a genus that includes several biocontrol agents used against invasive plants.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Europe introduced-species Sphaeromela
Chrysomela confluens
Chrysomela confluens is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Research demonstrates that this species exhibits dramatically elevated abundance in plant hybrid zones between cottonwood species (Populus), where staggered leaf phenologies create 'phenological sinks' that concentrate beetle populations. The species depends on newly flushed leaves for optimal growth and reproduction, and its distribution is strongly tied to host plant phenology rather than host plant taxonomy alone.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Populus hybrid-zone phenological-sink herbivory plant-insect-interaction folivore Salicaceae cottonwood population-ecology
Chrysomela crotchi
aspen leaf beetle
Chrysomela crotchi, the aspen leaf beetle, is a univoltine leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae that feeds exclusively on trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides). Adults are notable for their exceptional longevity, capable of overwintering two successive years. The species has been studied extensively in northwestern Ontario and at the Aspen FACE site in northern Wisconsin, where research has examined how host plant genotype and atmospheric conditions affect beetle performance. Populations are subject to regulation primarily through predation on immature stages and overwintering mortality.
leaf-beetle aspen-specialist univoltine long-lived-adults
Chrysomela interrupta
alder leaf beetle
Chrysomela interrupta, the alder leaf beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae found in North America. It is one of several species in the genus Chrysomela associated with woody host plants. The species is documented in entomological records and citizen science observations, though detailed biological studies appear limited in the accessible literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America alder herbivore Coleoptera
Chrysomela knabi
Knab's Leaf Beetle
Chrysomela knabi is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Brown in 1956. It is a willow-feeding specialist found in North America, with two recognized subspecies: C. k. knabi and C. k. hesperia. The species has been studied for its larval performance and adult fitness in relation to host plant quality and moisture content.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae willow-feeder Salix North-America host-specialization subspecies C.-k.-hesperia C.-k.-knabi
Chrysomela lineatopunctata
Chrysomela lineatopunctata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America and has been recorded in several Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. The species belongs to a genus of leaf beetles that are primarily associated with woody host plants, particularly willows and related Salicaceae.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America willow-beetle Coleoptera
Chrysomela mainensis
Maine Leaf Beetle
Chrysomela mainensis is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Bechyné in 1954. The species is found in North America, with observations recorded primarily from the northern United States and Canada. It belongs to a genus of leaf beetles that are typically associated with willow hosts. Three subspecies have been described: C. m. mainensis, C. m. interna, and C. m. littorea.
leaf-beetle willow-feeder North-American Chrysomelidae
Chrysomela mainensis interna
Chrysomela mainensis interna is a subspecies of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by W.J. Brown in 1956. It belongs to the genus Chrysomela, a group of willow-feeding leaf beetles. The subspecies is part of the North American fauna of Chrysomela, which includes several closely related taxa with specialized host plant associations.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae willow-feeder North-America subspecies
Chrysomela schaefferi
Chrysomela schaefferi is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by W.J. Brown in 1956 and is found in North America, with records from Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. As a member of the genus Chrysomela, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles that are typically associated with willow and poplar host plants.
leaf-beetle North-America Chrysomelidae Coleoptera
Chrysomela scripta
cottonwood leaf beetle
Chrysomela scripta, the cottonwood leaf beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae that feeds on Populus species, particularly cottonwoods and hybrid poplars. It is native to North and Central America and has been documented as a significant pest of poplar plantations. The species completes multiple generations per year in temperate regions, with development strongly influenced by temperature. It is subject to biological control by predators and parasitoids, and serves as host to the microsporidian parasite Nosema scripta.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Populus-pest plantation-pest biological-control microsporidian-host thermal-development chemical-ecology
Clytrina
Clytrina is a subtribe of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) within the tribe Clytrini. Members are small to medium-sized beetles characterized by enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The subtribe was established by W. Kirby in 1837 and is placed in the subfamily Cryptocephalinae.
leaf-beetle jumping-beetle saltatorial
Colaspidea
Colaspidea is a genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Eumolpinae. The genus exhibits a disjunct distribution, occurring in the Mediterranean region and in western North America (California and the southwestern United States). A notable morphological distinction exists between regional species: North American species possess fully developed wings, while Mediterranean species are wingless. Recent phylogenetic hypotheses suggest that Mediterranean Colaspidea may be sister to Chalcosicya, with Colaspina sister to both combined; North American species may represent a separate genus. The genus currently contains 19 described species.
leaf-beetle Eumolpinae Chrysomelidae disjunct-distribution wing-dimorphism aptery Mediterranean North-America California phylogenetic-uncertainty
Colaspidea pallipes
Colaspidea pallipes is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fall in 1933. The genus Colaspidea belongs to a group of leaf beetles commonly associated with vegetation, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented. Records indicate its presence in North America.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America
Colaspidea smaragdula
Colaspidea smaragdula is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by J.L. LeConte in 1857. The species is found in North America. It belongs to the genus Colaspidea, which comprises leaf beetles within the diverse chrysomelid family.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-American-fauna Coleoptera
Colaspis arizonensis
Colaspis arizonensis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by American entomologist Charles Frederic August Schaeffer in 1933. The species is known from a limited geographic range in southeastern Arizona and northwestern Mexico. Very few observations of this species have been recorded, with only four documented observations in iNaturalist as of the knowledge cutoff.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae endemic North-America data-deficient
Colaspis brownsvillensis
Brownsville milkvine leaf beetle, Texas Milkvine Colaspis
Colaspis brownsvillensis is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Doris Holmes Blake in 1975 (published 1976) from specimens collected in Brownsville, Texas. The species is endemic to Texas and is closely related to Colaspis nigrocyanea. It is commonly known as the Brownsville milkvine leaf beetle or Texas Milkvine Colaspis. Very few observations of this species have been recorded, with only 20 documented observations in iNaturalist.
endemic Texas leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae rarely-observed 1975-description
Colaspis brunnea
grape colaspis
Colaspis brunnea, commonly known as the grape colaspis, is a small leaf beetle native to eastern North America. Adults are brown in color and approximately 5 mm in length, with elytra bearing parallel rows of puncture marks. The species is univoltine, overwintering as larvae in the soil. While it has been observed feeding on crops including corn and soybeans, documented economic damage remains limited.
leaf-beetle agricultural-pest univoltine soil-dwelling-larvae North-America Chrysomelidae
Colaspis crinicornis
Colaspis crinicornis is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, native to the Great Plains of the United States. It was described by Schaeffer in 1933. Historically not considered a pest, its populations have increased substantially in corn and soybean fields in southeastern Nebraska over the past decade. The species has a univoltine life cycle, overwintering as larvae in soil and emerging as adults in summer. Adults feed on above-ground foliage while larvae feed on below-ground plant portions.
leaf-beetle agricultural-pest corn-pest soybean-pest Great-Plains Nebraska soil-dwelling-larvae univoltine
Colaspis cruriflava
Colaspis cruriflava is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, known only from Arizona, United States. The species was described by entomologist Doris Holmes Blake in 1977. Its specific epithet "cruriflava" refers to yellow legs, a distinctive morphological feature. The genus Colaspis includes numerous species associated with various host plants, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Arizona-endemic Chrysomelidae Doris-Holmes-Blake
Colaspis favosa
grape colaspis
Colaspis favosa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Eumolpinae. It is native to North America and occurs primarily along the Atlantic and Gulf coastal regions of the United States. The species has been documented as an early-season pest of soybean in the southern United States, where it is commonly known as the grape colaspis. It is one of several Colaspis species associated with agricultural crops.
leaf-beetle agricultural-pest soybean-pest early-season-pest
Colaspis flavocostata
Colaspis flavocostata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by C.F.A. Schaeffer in 1933. It is restricted to coastal southeastern United States, with records from Mississippi through Florida to South Carolina. The species includes two recognized subspecies: C. f. flavocostata and C. f. avaloni.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Colaspis North-America United-States coastal Southeast 1933 Schaeffer subspecies-avaloni
Colaspis floridana
Colaspis floridana is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Charles Schaeffer in 1934 as a variety of Colaspis brunnea and elevated to full species rank by Doris Blake in 1974. It occurs in the southeastern United States, with records from Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The species feeds on leaves of various plants including crop species and ornamentals, though it has not been reported as an economically damaging pest.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae southeastern-US agricultural-associate
Colaspis hesperia
Western Brown Colaspis Leaf Beetle
Colaspis hesperia is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, native to southwestern North America. The specific epithet "hesperia" derives from the Greek word for "western," reflecting its geographic distribution. It is closely related to Colaspis brunnea. The species has been documented in 51 observations on iNaturalist.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Colaspis western-North-America Arizona Texas Mexico
Colaspis louisianae
Colaspis louisianae is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, distributed in Texas and Louisiana. According to Chapin (1979), it is the most common species of the genus Colaspis in field crops in Louisiana. It is morphologically similar to Colaspis brunnea, requiring careful examination for identification.
leaf-beetle agricultural-pest soybean Louisiana Texas Chrysomelidae Colaspis field-crops
Colaspis pini
Pine Colaspis
Colaspis pini, commonly known as the pine colaspis, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. First described by American entomologist Herbert Spencer Barber in 1937, this species is known to feed on pines in the southern United States. It has been documented as an occasional pest of Christmas trees. The species is externally almost identical to Colaspis flavocostata but can be distinguished by the shape of the male aedeagus. Two subspecies are recognized: C. p. pini and C. p. schotti.
leaf-beetle pine-feeder pest Christmas-tree-pest southern-United-States
Colaspis suggona
Colaspis suggona is a leaf beetle species described by Blake in 1977. It belongs to the family Chrysomelidae and is known to occur in North America. Very little specific information is documented about this species, and it appears to be rarely observed or studied.
leaf-beetle Eumolpinae rarely-observed Blake-1977
Colaspis viridiceps
Green-headed Colaspis Leaf Beetle
Colaspis viridiceps is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, native to southwestern North America. It was first described by Charles Frederic August Schaeffer in 1933. The species is distinguished by its greenish head coloration, reflected in its specific epithet. Two subspecies are recognized: C. viridiceps viridiceps and C. viridiceps australis.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Southwest-North-America green-head Schaeffer-1933
Colaspis viriditincta
Colaspis viriditincta is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Charles Frederic August Schaeffer in 1919. The specific epithet refers to a green-tinged coloration. It is known from Arizona and Mexico. The genus Colaspis includes species associated with various host plants, though specific ecological details for this species remain limited.
leaf-beetle North-America Arizona Mexico 1919-description
Coleorozena fulvilabris
Coleorozena fulvilabris is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is distributed across Central America and North America. As a member of the genus Coleorozena, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles known for constructing protective larval cases from fecal material and shed exuviae.
case-bearing leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae
Coleothorpa axillaris
A case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae with eight recognized subspecies. The species exhibits notable geographic variation across its range in Central and North America. Subspecies were described primarily by Moldenke in 1970, with additional earlier descriptions by LeConte and Dahl.
leaf-beetle case-bearing Chrysomelidae subspecies-complex
Coscinoptera
Coscinoptera is a genus of case-bearing leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus was established by Lacordaire in 1848. Members of this genus belong to the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, tribe Clytrini, and are characterized by their case-bearing larval habit where larvae construct protective cases from fecal material and plant debris. The genus includes species such as C. aeneipennis, C. mucida, and C. villosa.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Cryptocephalinae Chrysomelidae
Crepidodera aereola
Crepidodera aereola is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to North America. As a member of the tribe Alticini, it possesses the enlarged hind femora characteristic of flea beetles, enabling jumping behavior. The species is among the smallest flea beetles in its region, with adults measuring approximately 1–1.6 mm in length. It has been documented feeding on plants in the genus Hibiscus.
flea-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini Hibiscus rosemallow North-America tiny-beetle leaf-beetle herbivore
Crepidodera opulenta
Crepidodera opulenta is a flea beetle (subfamily Galerucinae, tribe Alticini) first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1858. As a member of the genus Crepidodera, it belongs to a group of small leaf beetles characterized by their jumping ability. Very little specific information is available about this particular species, though the genus is known to contain species associated with various host plants. The species name 'opulenta' suggests a reference to richness or abundance, possibly alluding to coloration or some other distinctive feature noted by LeConte.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Galerucinae Alticini Crepidodera flea-beetle leaf-beetle North-America LeConte-1858 poorly-known-species
Crepidodera solita
Crepidodera solita is a flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Parry in 1986. The species was originally reported as endemic to Ontario, Canada, though subsequent records indicate a broader distribution across Canadian provinces. As a member of the tribe Alticini, it possesses the enlarged hind femora characteristic of flea beetles, enabling jumping locomotion. Very little is known about its biology, host associations, or ecology.
flea-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini Canada Coleoptera leaf-beetle
Crepidodera violacea
Violet Flea Beetle
Crepidodera violacea is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America and belongs to the subfamily Alticinae, characterized by enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The species was described by Melsheimer in 1847. Like other flea beetles, it is likely associated with herbaceous vegetation, though specific host plants are not well documented in available sources.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticinae North-America
Crioceris
asparagus beetle
Crioceris is a genus of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) commonly known as asparagus beetles. The genus includes both widespread agricultural pests and rare species restricted to specialized habitats. Several species are associated with Asparagus host plants, with C. asparagi and C. duodecimpunctata being notable invasive pests. Other species such as C. quinquepunctata and C. quatuordecimpunctata are rare and occupy steppe-like habitats in Eurasia. The genus has been subject to molecular barcoding studies to distinguish closely related species.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle asparagus-pest invasive-species steppe-habitat molecular-barcoding Wolbachia biological-control genome-sequenced
Crioceris asparagi
Common Asparagus Beetle
Crioceris asparagi, the common asparagus beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Native to Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia and Siberia, it has been introduced to North America where it is a significant pest of cultivated asparagus. Both adults and larvae feed externally on leaves and stems of Asparagus species. The beetle is notable for its distinctive appearance: metallic blue-black with cream or yellow spots on red-bordered elytra, and for its specialized egg attachment mechanism that allows eggs to adhere to the anti-adhesive crystalline waxy surface of host plants.
pest agricultural leaf-beetle specialist-herbivore invasive-species
Crioceris duodecimpunctata
Spotted Asparagus Beetle
A small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, Crioceris duodecimpunctata is a significant invasive pest of asparagus cultivations. Adults feed on tender shoots and leaves, while larvae develop exclusively on asparagus berries. The species is widespread across the Palearctic region and has been introduced to North America. Molecular studies confirm its status as a sister taxon to C. quatuordecimpunctata, with both species originating nearly simultaneously from a common ancestor.
invasive-pest agricultural-pest asparagus sexual-dimorphism olfactory-behavior leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Palearctic introduced-species semiochemicals
Cryptocephalina
case-bearer leaf beetles
Cryptocephalina is a subtribe of leaf beetles within the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, commonly known as case-bearer leaf beetles. These beetles are characterized by their distinctive life history: adults possess the ability to retract their head, legs, and antennae into grooves on the body, while larvae construct protective cases from fecal material. The subtribe includes species with highly specialized ecological associations, including myrmecophilous (ant-associated) forms that live within ant nests.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae case-bearer myrmecophily cycloalexy thanatosis fecal-case leaf-beetle
Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus is a genus of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) in the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, belonging to the Camptosomata, a group commonly known as case-bearing leaf beetles. The genus is characterized by larvae that construct protective cases from their own fecal matter. It is a large and widespread genus with numerous species distributed across the Holarctic region, though individual species often have restricted ranges and specialized host plant associations.
leaf-beetle case-bearing Camptosomata Chrysomelidae
Cryptocephalus alternans
Cryptocephalus alternans is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It occurs in southwestern North America, including California, Arizona, and Mexico. Two subspecies are recognized: C. a. alternans and C. a. jungovittatus, with the latter measuring 4.7–5.0 mm in length.
leaf-beetle case-bearing Cryptocephalus Chrysomelidae Southwestern-North-America Mexico California Arizona
Cryptocephalus atrofasciatus
Cryptocephalus atrofasciatus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Jacoby in 1880. It belongs to a large genus of leaf beetles known for their rounded, compact bodies and enlarged hind femora. The species has been recorded from both Central America and North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented. Like other members of Cryptocephalus, adults likely feed on foliage of various plants, with larvae developing in protective cases constructed from fecal material and plant debris.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Coleoptera Central-America North-America Cryptocephalus Jacoby-1880
Cryptocephalus aulicus
Princely-spotted Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus aulicus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Haldeman in 1849. It occurs in North America and belongs to a large genus of small, often brightly colored beetles commonly known as case-bearing leaf beetles due to the habit of larvae constructing portable cases from fecal material and shed skins. The specific epithet "aulicus" suggests a princely or courtly association, reflected in its preferred common name.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Haldeman-1849
Cryptocephalus australobispinus
Sand Plains Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus australobispinus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Riley and Gilbert in 2000. The species is found in North America and is associated with sand prairie habitats. Like other members of the genus, adults likely feed on foliage of host plants and larvae develop in portable cases constructed from fecal material and plant debris.
leaf-beetle case-bearer Cryptocephalus Chrysomelidae sand-prairie North-America
Cryptocephalus binotatus
Cryptocephalus binotatus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by R. White in 1968. It is found in North America. Like other members of the genus, it likely exhibits the characteristic case-bearing behavior where larvae construct protective cases from their own fecal material and shed exoskeletons.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Coleoptera
Cryptocephalus bispinus
Cryptocephalus bispinus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Suffrian in 1858. The species is known from North America, though detailed biological information remains limited. Like other members of the genus Cryptocephalus, it likely exhibits the characteristic case-bearing behavior where larvae construct protective cases from their own fecal material and shed skins.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalus leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America
Cryptocephalus brunneovittatus
Texas Brown-striped Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus brunneovittatus is a case-bearing leaf beetle described by Schaeffer in 1904. It belongs to the genus Cryptocephalus, a large group of leaf beetles known for constructing protective cases from fecal material and exuviae. The species occurs in Central America and North America, with the common name "Texas Brown-striped Cryptocephalus" suggesting a primary association with Texas in the United States. Like other members of its genus, it is presumed to feed on plant foliage, though specific host associations remain undocumented.
Chrysomelidae Coleoptera Cryptocephalus leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle
Cryptocephalus castaneus
Chestnut-colored Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus castaneus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. The species is one of over 1,000 described species in the genus Cryptocephalus, a diverse group of leaf beetles known for their rounded, compact bodies and enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The specific epithet "castaneus" refers to the chestnut coloration typical of this species.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera
Cryptocephalus cupressi
Cypress Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus cupressi is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Schaeffer in 1933. As a member of the large genus Cryptocephalus, this species is known from North America. The specific epithet 'cupressi' suggests an association with cypress (Cupressaceae), though detailed biological information remains limited. The species is documented in 11 iNaturalist observations.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalus leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Schaeffer-1933
Cryptocephalus defectus
Texas Yellow Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus defectus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1880. The species is known from North America, with the common name "Texas Yellow Cryptocephalus" suggesting a primary association with Texas and surrounding regions. As a member of the genus Cryptocephalus, it exhibits the typical concealed feeding behavior of its group, with larvae constructing portable cases from fecal material and host plant debris. Available documentation for this species is limited, with only 16 observations recorded on iNaturalist as of the knowledge cutoff.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Cryptocephalus North-America Texas
Cryptocephalus downiei
Downie's spotted leaf beetle, Downie-dotted Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus downiei is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described in 2000 by E. Riley and Gilbert, with the specific epithet honoring American psychologist and coleopterist Norville Downie. The species is known from North America and belongs to a genus whose larvae construct portable cases from their own feces and shed exoskeletons.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalus leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America 2000-description eponym Norville-Downie
Cryptocephalus falli
Fall's Florida Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus falli is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Schöller in 2002. The species is found in North America. As a member of the genus Cryptocephalus, it belongs to a group commonly known as case-bearing leaf beetles, where larvae construct protective cases from their own excrement and shed skins.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus gibbicollis
Hump-necked Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus gibbicollis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Haldeman in 1849. The species is found in North America and belongs to a genus whose larvae construct protective cases from their own fecal material combined with plant debris. The specific epithet "gibbicollis" refers to a humped or swollen neck (collum), likely describing a distinctive pronotal or cervical feature of this species.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-American-fauna
Cryptocephalus guttulatellus
Spotted Tamaulipan Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus guttulatellus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. The species is part of a large genus of leaf beetles commonly known as case-bearers due to the habit of larvae constructing protective cases from their own fecal material and shed exoskeletons.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Coleoptera
Cryptocephalus guttulatus
Fourteen-spotted Leaf Beetle
Cryptocephalus guttulatus, commonly known as the fourteen-spotted leaf beetle, is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is found in North America, with documented records from Ontario and Québec in Canada. It belongs to a large genus of leaf beetles known for their rounded, compact bodies and protective larval cases. The common name refers to the spotted pattern on its elytra.
case-bearing leaf-beetle Coleoptera North-America Chrysomelidae
Cryptocephalus implacidus
Coarse Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus implacidus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by R. White in 1968. It occurs in North America, where adults are associated with herbaceous vegetation. The species is part of the diverse genus Cryptocephalus, whose members are commonly known as case-bearing leaf beetles due to the habit of larvae constructing protective cases from fecal material and shed exoskeletons.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Coleoptera
Cryptocephalus insertus
Inserted Case-bearing Leaf Beetle
Cryptocephalus insertus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America, with records from Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario in Canada. The species was described by Haldeman in 1849. As a member of the genus Cryptocephalus, it shares the characteristic behavior of larvae that construct portable cases from their own fecal material and shed skins.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Canada
Cryptocephalus merus
case-bearing leaf beetle
Cryptocephalus merus is a small case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, measuring 3.8–4.3 mm in length. The species is known from a restricted distribution in the southwestern United States, with confirmed records from Arizona and Texas and possible occurrence in Mexico. Like other members of the genus, adults construct protective cases from fecal material and shed exoskeletons that cover the abdomen.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalus leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Coleoptera North-America Arizona Texas
Cryptocephalus multisignatus
Cryptocephalus multisignatus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Schaeffer in 1933. The species is known to occur in North America. Like other members of the genus Cryptocephalus, adults likely feed on foliage of various plants, though specific host associations for this species remain undocumented. The larvae construct protective cases from fecal material and shed skins, a characteristic trait of the subfamily Cryptocephalinae.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Cryptocephalus Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America
Cryptocephalus nigrocinctus
Metallic Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus nigrocinctus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Suffrian in 1852. It is known by the common name Metallic Cryptocephalus. The species occurs in North America and the Caribbean region. As a member of the genus Cryptocephalus, it shares the characteristic behavior of constructing portable cases from fecal material and shed exoskeletons.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus notatus
Red-marked Leaf Beetle
Cryptocephalus notatus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the Red-marked Leaf Beetle. The species is native to North America and has been recorded across multiple Canadian provinces and the United States. It belongs to a genus whose larvae construct portable cases from fecal material and shed exoskeletons.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-American-fauna
Cryptocephalus notatus fulvipennis
Cryptocephalus Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle subspecies Coleoptera Cryptocephalini
Cryptocephalus pallidicinctus
Pale-bordered Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus pallidicinctus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fall in 1932. It is known from North America, with very limited observational records. As a member of the genus Cryptocephalus, it likely shares the characteristic behavior of larvae constructing portable cases from fecal material and exuviae, though specific details for this species remain undocumented.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalus leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Coleoptera
Cryptocephalus pubicollis
Cryptocephalus pubicollis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was described by Linell in 1898. It is found in North America. Like other members of the genus Cryptocephalus, adults construct portable cases from their own excrement and shed exoskeletons, which they carry throughout their lives.
beetle leaf-beetle case-bearing Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalus North-America
Cryptocephalus quadruplex
Black and Red Sumac Leaf Beetle
Cryptocephalus quadruplex is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species occurs across North America, with records from Canada (Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario) and the United States. As a member of the case-bearing leaf beetles, its larvae construct protective cases from fecal matter and sometimes plant debris. The species has been observed on sumac (Rhus) and other vegetation in prairie and open woodland habitats.
leaf-beetle case-bearing prairie sumac Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalus North-America herbivore
Cryptocephalus quercus
Cryptocephalus quercus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Schaeffer in 1906. The specific epithet 'quercus' refers to oak, suggesting an association with Quercus species. It is found in North America, though detailed natural history information remains limited.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America
Cryptocephalus sanguinicollis nigerrimus
A subspecies of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Described by Crotch in 1874. Very few observations exist, with only 3 records in iNaturalist. Known from Middle and North America.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae subspecies rarely-observed
Cryptocephalus schreibersii
Furrow-necked Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus schreibersii is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. The species belongs to the genus Cryptocephalus, a large group of leaf beetles commonly known as case-bearers due to their habit of constructing protective cases from fecal material and exuviae.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Coleoptera
Cryptocephalus simulans
case-bearing leaf beetle
Cryptocephalus simulans is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. The species was described by Schaeffer in 1906 and includes four recognized subspecies. Like other members of the genus, adults are associated with vegetation and larvae construct protective cases from excrement and shed skins.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Schaeffer-1906
Cryptocephalus texanus
Texas Cryptocephalus
Cryptocephalus texanus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Schaeffer in 1933. As a member of the genus Cryptocephalus, it possesses the characteristic hardened larval case formed from fecal material and shed exuviae. The species is known from North America, with records primarily from the southern United States. Like other members of its genus, adults are small, rounded leaf beetles with enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping.
Cryptocephalus Chrysomelidae Coleoptera leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Texas
Cryptocephalus umbonatus
Cryptocephalus umbonatus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Schaeffer in 1906. It is found in North America. Like other members of its genus, it belongs to a group commonly known as case-bearing leaf beetles due to the habit of larvae constructing protective cases from fecal material and exuviae.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Schaeffer-1906
Cyclotrypema furcata
Straggler Daisy Leaf Beetle
Cyclotrypema furcata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae and the sole described species in its genus. It is known from Texas and Mexico. The common name 'Straggler Daisy Leaf Beetle' suggests an association with the plant genus Calyptocarpus, commonly called straggler daisy, though this relationship has not been formally documented in available sources. As a member of Chrysomelidae, it likely feeds on plant foliage, but specific host records remain unverified.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Texas Mexico North-America
Derospidea ornata
Tamaulipan Pricklyash Leaf Beetle
Derospidea ornata is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, found in Central and North America. The species is known by the common name Tamaulipan Pricklyash Leaf Beetle. As a skeletonizing leaf beetle, adults feed on leaf tissue between the veins, leaving a lace-like appearance. The species has been documented in 26 iNaturalist observations.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae skeletonizing Coleoptera
Diabrotica
cucumber beetles, corn rootworms
Diabrotica is a large, widespread genus of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) comprising approximately 400 species native to the Americas. The genus includes several economically significant agricultural pests, particularly species affecting corn, cucurbits, and other crops. Three informal species groups are recognized—fucata (354 species, multivoltine), virgifera (24 species, univoltine), and signifera (11 species, univoltine)—based on life history traits rather than molecular phylogeny. The genus exhibits a unique evolutionary relationship with cucurbitacin-producing plants, with beetles attracted to these bitter, toxic compounds for chemical defense.
agricultural-pest root-feeder leaf-beetle cucurbit-specialist corn-pest invasive-species
Diabrotica adelpha
Festive Diabrotica
Diabrotica adelpha is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Edgar von Harold in 1875. The species is notable for its distinctive coloration featuring a black head, red pronotum, and patterned elytra with black, white, and yellow markings. It is a member of the economically important genus Diabrotica, which includes several significant agricultural pests, though specific pest status for D. adelpha itself is not well documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Diabrotica colorful described-1875
Diabrotica cristata
Black Diabrotica
Diabrotica cristata, commonly known as the black diabrotica, is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America and has been recorded in Canada (Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan) and the United States. The species is part of the economically significant genus Diabrotica, which includes several agricultural pests, though specific economic impacts of D. cristata itself are not well documented. Based on iNaturalist records, the species has been observed approximately 1,840 times.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle North-America Canada Coleoptera
Diachus catarius
Diachus catarius is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Suffrian in 1852. The species is recorded from eastern Canada, specifically New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Ontario. Very few observations exist in public databases, suggesting it may be uncommon or underreported. As a member of Chrysomelidae, it belongs to a family of herbivorous beetles, though species-specific biology remains poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae eastern-Canada rarely-observed Suffrian-1852
Diachus subopacus
Diachus subopacus is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Schaeffer in 1906. It belongs to the tribe Clytrini, a group known for their association with grasses and sedges. The species is found in North America and is one of several species in the genus Diachus, which are generally characterized by their compact, somewhat rounded body form and dull coloration.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Clytrini North-America grassland
Diorhabda
tamarisk beetle, saltcedar leaf beetle
Diorhabda is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Galerucinae. Most species within the genus feed on Tamarix (tamarisk or saltcedar), though at least one species, D. tarsalis, is a pest of Chinese licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis). The genus is native to Europe and Asia, with several species introduced to North America as biological control agents for invasive Tamarix. The D. elongata species group comprises five sibling species specialized on Tamarix: D. elongata, D. carinata, D. sublineata, D. carinulata, and D. meridionalis.
leaf-beetle biological-control invasive-species-management agricultural-pest Tamarix saltcedar Chinese-licorice olfaction host-specificity hybridization
Diorhabda carinulata
Northern Tamarisk Beetle, Saltcedar Beetle, Saltcedar Leaf Beetle, Tamarisk Leaf Beetle
Diorhabda carinulata is a leaf beetle native to Central Asia, introduced to North America as a classical biological control agent for invasive saltcedar (Tamarix spp.). Adults and larvae feed exclusively on Tamarix foliage, causing defoliation that can reduce tamarisk biomass by 75–85% over multiple years. The species has established successfully in the western United States, with populations evolving shorter critical day lengths for diapause induction that enable range expansion. Its introduction has generated conservation concerns due to impacts on nesting habitat for the federally endangered southwestern willow flycatcher.
biological-control invasive-species-management Chrysomelidae Tamarix saltcedar leaf-beetle herbivore-induced-plant-volatiles aggregation-pheromone diapause-evolution conservation-conflict classical-biological-control weed-biocontrol riparian-ecology post-release-evolution host-specificity
Diorhabda sublineata
Subtropical Tamarisk Beetle, Saltcedar Beetle, Saltcedar Leaf Beetle, Tamarisk Leaf Beetle
Diorhabda sublineata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the subtropical tamarisk beetle. Originally described from Algeria in 1849, it was restored to full species status in 2009 after being treated as a subspecies or synonym of D. elongata for over a century. It is a specialist feeder on tamarisk (Tamarix spp.) and has been introduced to North America as a biological control agent against invasive saltcedar. The species is particularly adapted to subtropical and Mediterranean climates.
biological-control invasive-species-management leaf-beetle tamarisk saltcedar Chrysomelidae subtropical Mediterranean riparian-ecology
Disonycha alabamae
Disonycha alabamae is a flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Schaeffer in 1919. The species is known from limited records in North America. As a member of the genus Disonycha, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles often associated with specific host plants. Available data on this species is sparse, with only three observations documented in iNaturalist.
Chrysomelidae Galerucinae Alticini flea-beetle leaf-beetle North-America
Disonycha discoidea abbreviata
Disonycha discoidea abbreviata is a subspecies of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It belongs to a genus of leaf-feeding beetles commonly associated with host plants in several families. The subspecies designation indicates geographic or morphological differentiation from the nominate form D. discoidea. Available records suggest it occurs in North America.
Chrysomelidae Disonycha flea-beetle leaf-beetle subspecies North-America Coleoptera
Disonycha fumata
Disonycha fumata is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in Central America and North America.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Disonycha North-America Central-America
Disonycha funerea
Death Disonycha Flea Beetle
Disonycha funerea is a flea beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, native to North America. The common name "Death Disonycha Flea Beetle" reflects its dark, somber coloration. As a member of the genus Disonycha, it belongs to a group of small, jumping leaf beetles known for their enlarged hind femora that enable their characteristic flea-like escape behavior. The species was described by Randall in 1838.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle jumping-beetle North-America
Disonycha triangularis
Three-spotted Flea Beetle
Disonycha triangularis, commonly known as the three-spotted flea beetle, is a flea beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae. It is recognized by its distinctive triangular markings and jumping ability characteristic of flea beetles. The species is native to North America and has been documented across a broad geographic range including Canada and the United States.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle jumping-beetle North-American-fauna
Distigmoptera apicalis
Distigmoptera apicalis is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Described by Blake in 1943, it occurs in North America, with confirmed records from Ontario, Canada. The species belongs to the genus Distigmoptera, a group of small leaf beetles characterized by enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. As a member of the subfamily Alticinae, it shares the general flea beetle body plan but specific diagnostic features for this species remain poorly documented in accessible literature.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticinae North-America Coleoptera
Distigmoptera borealis
Distigmoptera borealis is a flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Blake in 1943. It is found in northern North America, with records from Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba in Canada. Very little is known about its biology, ecology, or appearance beyond basic taxonomic placement.
flea-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America Canada Blake-1943 Distigmoptera leaf-beetle
Distigmoptera pilosa
Distigmoptera pilosa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Illiger in 1807. It is a small beetle with a North American distribution, recorded from multiple Canadian provinces including Ontario, Québec, and Saskatchewan. Like other members of its genus, it likely inhabits vegetation in open or semi-open habitats, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented. The species epithet "pilosa" refers to hairiness, suggesting a notably setose body covering.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle North-America Canadian-fauna
Distigmoptera texana
Distigmoptera texana is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Blake in 1943. The genus Distigmoptera is part of a diverse group of leaf beetles, though specific ecological and biological details for this species remain poorly documented. Records indicate presence in North America and Middle America.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae rarely-reported North-America Middle-America
Donacia
Donacia is a large genus of aquatic leaf beetles in the subfamily Donaciinae. Adults are active, capable of sustained flight, and possess adaptations for both aerial and submerged existence. The genus is distinguished by a truncate elytral apex and a pubescent area above the procoxa. Larvae develop on submerged portions of aquatic plants, while adults inhabit surface parts of the same host vegetation. The genus contains approximately 113 described species arranged into 15 proposed subgenera, with major radiations in the Nearctic and Palaearctic regions.
aquatic leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Donaciinae plastron aquatic-plants
Donacia caerulea
Donacia caerulea is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Donaciinae. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from Canadian provinces including Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Ontario. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with freshwater aquatic habitats where its larvae develop on submerged vegetation.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Donaciinae North-America freshwater
Donacia cincticornis
Girdle-horned Pond Lily Leaf Beetle
Donacia cincticornis is a species of aquatic leaf beetle in the subfamily Donaciinae, characterized by its association with aquatic vegetation. The species is known from the Caribbean, Central America, and North America. Three subspecies have been described: D. c. cincticornis, D. c. tenuis, and D. c. tryphera. Like other members of the genus Donacia, it is closely tied to freshwater habitats.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle Donaciinae water-lily-beetle freshwater-insect herbivore New-World
Donacia confluenta
Confluent reed beetle
Donacia confluenta is a North American leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the confluent reed beetle. The species is distributed across much of Canada and the northern United States, with records from Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. As a member of the subfamily Donaciinae, it is associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats and likely feeds on aquatic vegetation.
Chrysomelidae Donaciinae leaf-beetle reed-beetle aquatic-beetle North-America Canada
Donacia dissimilis
Donacia dissimilis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Donaciinae. Like other members of its genus, it is an aquatic or semi-aquatic beetle associated with freshwater habitats. The species was described by Schaeffer in 1925 and is known from North America.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle freshwater-insect herbivore
Donacia distincta
Donacia distincta is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by LeConte in 1851. The species is known from North America, with records from Canada including Alberta, British Columbia, and Labrador. As a member of the subfamily Donaciinae, it shares the characteristic aquatic or semi-aquatic lifestyle of its genus.
aquatic leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America
Donacia edentata
Toothless pond lily leaf beetle
Donacia edentata is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Schaeffer in 1919. The common name "toothless pond lily leaf beetle" refers to its edentate (toothless) condition and association with aquatic plants in the Nymphaeaceae family. Like other members of genus Donacia, it is adapted to life in freshwater habitats with submerged vegetation.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Donaciinae North-America water-lily-associate
Donacia fulgens
Glittering reed beetle
Donacia fulgens, commonly known as the glittering reed beetle, is a species of leaf beetle in the subfamily Donaciinae. Members of this genus are aquatic or semi-aquatic beetles closely associated with emergent vegetation in freshwater habitats. The species was described by LeConte in 1851 and is known to occur in North America, with records from Canada including Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.
aquatic wetland leaf-beetle reed-beetle North-America
Donacia hypoleuca
Pale pond lily leaf beetle
Donacia hypoleuca is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the pale pond lily leaf beetle. It is found in North America, with records from regions including Québec, Canada. As a member of the genus Donacia, it is associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats and is likely linked to pond lily (Nymphaea) or other aquatic vegetation as host plants.
aquatic leaf-beetle pond-lily North-America
Donacia magnifica
magnificent aquatic leaf beetle, Magnificent pondweed beetle
Donacia magnifica is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by LeConte in 1851. It is native to North America, with records from Canada and the northern United States. The species is closely associated with pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.), on whose leaves adults feed. Like other members of the genus Donacia, it is adapted to an aquatic lifestyle.
aquatic leaf-beetle pondweed freshwater Chrysomelidae Donaciinae North-America Potamogeton
Donacia militaris
Well-armed pond lily beetle
Donacia militaris is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to the eastern United States. Like other members of the genus Donacia, it is associated with aquatic vegetation. The common name "Well-armed pond lily beetle" reflects both its aquatic habitat and the species epithet.
aquatic leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Donacia pond-lily
Donacia palmata
Palm-footed pond lily leaf beetle
Donacia palmata is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America, with distribution records from Canada (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario) and the broader North American continent. As a member of the subfamily Donaciinae, it is associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats. The species is commonly known as the Palm-footed pond lily leaf beetle.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Donaciinae
Donacia parvidens
Donacia parvidens is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was described by C. Schaeffer in 1919. It is found in North America, with records from Ontario, Canada. As a member of the subfamily Donaciinae, it is adapted to life in association with aquatic vegetation.
aquatic leaf-beetle
Donacia pubescens
Pubescent sedge beetle
Donacia pubescens is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by LeConte in 1868. It is found across North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba) and the United States. Like other members of the genus Donacia, it is associated with aquatic habitats and is likely a specialist on aquatic plants.
aquatic leaf-beetle wetland Cyperaceae North-America Chrysomelidae Donaciinae
Donacia pubicollis
Donacia pubicollis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Donaciinae. It is currently treated as a synonym of Donaciella pubicollis. The species has been recorded in North America, specifically in the Canadian provinces of Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario. Records are sparse, with only four observations documented on iNaturalist. Like other members of the Donaciinae, it is likely associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Donaciinae aquatic-beetle North-America Canada synonym
Donacia rufescens
Donacia rufescens is a species of aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Members of the genus Donacia are typically associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats, where they feed on submerged and emergent vegetation. The 'cf.' notation in the record indicates tentative identification based on morphological similarity, pending definitive confirmation. The genus is notable for its ecological specialization on wetland plants and its role as an indicator of habitat quality.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle wetland Northern-Ireland tentative-identification
Donacia subtilis
Donacia subtilis is a leaf beetle in the subfamily Donaciinae, commonly known as the aquatic leaf beetles. Species in this genus are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats, typically feeding on submerged or emergent aquatic vegetation. Adults are often found on the leaves of host plants, while larvae develop in the roots and stems of aquatic plants. The species has been recorded across much of northern North America.
leaf-beetle aquatic-beetle Donaciinae Chrysomelidae aquatic-vegetation North-America
Donacia tuberculata
Tuberculate reed beetle
Donacia tuberculata is a species of aquatic leaf beetle in the subfamily Donaciinae. It occurs in North America and is associated with aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats. Like other members of its genus, it is linked to wetland vegetation and has aquatic larvae that develop on submerged plant roots.
aquatic wetland leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Donaciinae North-America herbivore freshwater
Dysphenges penrosei
Dysphenges penrosei is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Gilbert & Riley in 2012 from the United States. It belongs to the genus Dysphenges, which was erected by Horn in 1894. The species was named in honor of the late Richard L. Penrose, a prominent California coleopterist. It is one of three new Dysphenges species described in the same publication.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle commemorative-epithet
Dysphenges rileyi
Dysphenges rileyi is a species of flea beetle (subfamily Galerucinae, tribe Alticini) in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. The species was described in 2002 by Gilbert and Andrews. It occurs in Central America and North America.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini Galerucinae Coleoptera
Dysphenges secretus
Dysphenges secretus is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Gilbert and Riley in 2012. It was one of three new species of the genus Dysphenges described from the United States in a paper published in The Pan-Pacific Entomologist. The genus Dysphenges belongs to the tribe Alticini, a large group of leaf beetles known for their enlarged hind femora that enable jumping.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Alticini Galerucinae Chrysomelidae Coleoptera United-States 2012-description Gilbert-&-Riley
Entomoscelina
Entomoscelina is a subgenus of leaf beetles within the genus Entomoscelis (family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Chrysomelinae). Species in this subgenus are associated with brassicaceous host plants. The group is primarily distributed in the Palaearctic region. Taxonomic boundaries between Entomoscelina and related subgenera have been subject to revision.
leaf-beetle Brassicaceae-feeder Palaearctic agricultural-pest subgenus
Entomoscelis americana
red turnip beetle
Entomoscelis americana is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the red turnip beetle. It is native to North America, primarily distributed between 45° and 68° north latitude within the Western Cordillera and Interior Plains physiographic regions. The species is associated with forest, forest-grassland, and grassland vegetation types. In 2020, it was synonymized with the Palearctic species Entomoscelis adonidis, though this relationship was historically disputed based on morphological differences in male genitalia.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae crucifer-feeder North-America pest agricultural
Epitrix humeralis
Epitrix humeralis is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Dury in 1906. It is a small leaf beetle distributed across North America, with confirmed records from Ontario, Canada. Like other members of the genus Epitrix, it likely feeds on Solanaceae plants, though specific host associations for this species remain poorly documented. The species is distinguished from congeners by subtle morphological features of the elytra and pronotum.
flea-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America leaf-beetle Coleoptera
Erynephala puncticollis
beet leaf beetle
A skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, found in alkaline and dry lakebed habitats. Adults have been observed feeding on succulent foliage of salt-tolerant plants. The species occurs across Central America and North America, with records from the southwestern United States.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae alkaline-habitat salt-tolerant-vegetation skeletonizing-beetle
Erynephala texana
Erynephala texana is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus Erynephala belongs to the subfamily Galerucinae, which contains many herbivorous beetles commonly known as skeletonizing leaf beetles or flea beetles. This species has been documented in the southwestern United States, including Texas, consistent with its specific epithet. The genus is relatively small and poorly studied, with limited published information on its biology and ecology.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Galerucinae understudied southwestern-US herbivorous-beetle
Eulepton
Eulepton is a genus of leaf beetles (family Chrysomelidae) established by Riley in 2019. The genus was erected relatively recently in coleopteran taxonomy, suggesting it may have been separated from a related genus based on morphological or genetic distinctions. As a member of Chrysomelidae, its species are herbivorous beetles. The genus appears to be poorly documented in public sources, with minimal observational records available.
leaf-beetle Coleoptera Chrysomelidae recently-described-genus
Exema conspersa
warty leaf beetle
Exema conspersa is a species of warty leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus Exema belongs to the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, commonly known as warty leaf beetles or case-bearing leaf beetles, recognized for their distinctive sculptured body surfaces. The species is distributed across Central America and North America.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle North-America Central-America warty-leaf-beetle
Galeruca externa
Galeruca externa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1824. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from Ontario, Canada and the United States. As a member of the genus Galeruca, it belongs to a group of beetles commonly known as toadflax beetles or related leaf-feeding chrysomelids. Very little specific ecological or biological information has been published for this particular species.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera Galeruca
Galeruca rudis
Galeruca rudis is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is distributed across western North America, from California and New Mexico north to Yukon and British Columbia. It has been recorded in association with various lupine species (Lupinus spp.), which serve as host plants. The species was first described by LeConte in 1857.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae skeletonizer lupine western-North-America
Galerucella
leaf beetles
Galerucella is a genus of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) described by Crotch in 1873. The genus is widely distributed globally but absent from the Neotropics. Several species have been extensively studied for biological control applications, particularly against invasive aquatic plants such as purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) and waterlilies. The genus has become a model system for ecological and evolutionary research, with genome assemblies available for three species (G. calmariensis, G. pusilla, and G. tenella).
leaf-beetle biological-control wetland herbivore genomic-model invasive-species-management Chrysomelidae
Galerucella nymphaeae
water-lily beetle, water lily leaf beetle
Galerucella nymphaeae is a univoltine skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Adults and larvae feed on aquatic and semi-aquatic host plants, primarily in the families Nymphaeaceae and Polygonaceae. The species exhibits a distinctive reproductive diapause strategy where adults mate in summer but delay oviposition until spring after overwintering. Populations show genetically based polymorphisms in morphology, size, and reproductive traits associated with host plant use, suggesting incipient host race formation.
leaf-beetle aquatic-insect univoltine reproductive-diapause host-race underwater-attachment biological-control biomimetics
Gastrophysa
dock leaf beetles, knotweed leaf beetles
Gastrophysa is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, distinguished by pronounced physogastrism in females—swollen, membranous abdomens resulting from enlarged reproductive organs. The genus includes approximately nine described species, with G. viridula and G. polygoni being the most extensively studied. Members are oligophagous specialists on Polygonaceae, serving as both beneficial biological control agents for weeds and occasional minor pests of cultivated buckwheat. Several species have been introduced to North America and other regions, where they have established widespread populations.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle physogastrism Polygonaceae-specialist biological-control weed-biocontrol sexual-dimorphism introduced-species
Gastrophysa cyanea
green dock beetle, blue dock beetle
Gastrophysa cyanea is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, measuring 4-5 mm with metallic green coloration that may shift to metallic blue in pinned specimens. The species is found across North America and is strongly associated with dock plants (Rumex species), particularly curly dock. Females develop conspicuously swollen abdomens prior to egg laying, providing a reliable diagnostic feature. The species emerges in spring and has been the subject of behavioral studies examining host plant recognition.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Rumex dock-beetle metallic-green herbivore North-America spring-emergence host-specialization
Gastrophysa dissimilis
Gastrophysa dissimilis is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1824. It is distributed across North America, with confirmed records from Canada including Alberta, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories. The genus Gastrophysa comprises leaf beetles primarily associated with Polygonaceae host plants, though species-specific ecological details for G. dissimilis remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America Say-1824
Gastrophysa formosa
Gastrophysa formosa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It occurs in North America, with distribution records from Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan) and presumably the United States. The genus Gastrophysa includes several species associated with Polygonaceae host plants. Beyond basic taxonomic placement and geographic range, specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented in available sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Canadian-prairie-provinces
Gastrophysa polygoni
Knotweed Leaf Beetle
Gastrophysa polygoni is a small leaf beetle in the subfamily Chrysomelinae, described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. Adults reach approximately 5 mm in length and display distinctive coloration: metallic green wing cases (elytra), green-blue body, and orange thorax. The species is native to Europe and has become established in North America, where it was introduced early in colonial settlement. It feeds primarily on Polygonaceae plants, serving as a beneficial biological control agent for weeds such as knotweeds and docks, though it occasionally damages cultivated buckwheat. The beetle exhibits complex reproductive behaviors including olfactory examination of airspace, track marking by females, and post-copulatory cleaning rituals.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae biological-control Polygonaceae weed pesticide-sensitivity introduced-species North-America Europe reproductive-behavior olfactory-orientation
Glyptina atriventris
Glyptina atriventris is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Horn in 1889. The species is distributed across Central and North America, with records from Alberta, Canada. Like other flea beetles, it possesses enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The genus Glyptina is part of the subfamily Alticinae, one of the largest subfamilies of leaf beetles.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Alticinae Coleoptera
Glyptina spuria
Glyptina spuria is a flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by LeConte in 1859. It belongs to a genus of small leaf beetles characterized by enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The species has been recorded from central and eastern Canada.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Coleoptera Chrysomelidae North-America Canada
Glyptoscelis
Glyptoscelis is a genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Eumolpinae, tribe Eumolpini. The genus contains 38 described species distributed across North, Central, and South America. One species, Glyptoscelis squamulata, is a documented agricultural pest of grape vines in southern California. The genus was historically classified in tribe Adoxini but has been reassigned to Eumolpini based on current taxonomy.
Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae Eumolpini leaf-beetle agricultural-pest vineyard-pest diapause
Glyptoscelis alternata
Glyptoscelis alternata is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Crotch in 1873. The species is native to the western United States. As a member of the genus Glyptoscelis, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles whose members are generally associated with vegetation.
leaf-beetle western-United-States Chrysomelidae Coleoptera
Glyptoscelis cryptica
Glyptoscelis cryptica is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was described by Thomas Say in 1824. It is known from the central United States. Information regarding its biology, host plants, and ecology remains poorly documented in available sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America central-United-States Say-1824
Glyptoscelis pubescens
hairy leaf beetle, pine chrysomelid
Glyptoscelis pubescens is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the hairy leaf beetle or pine chrysomelid. It is distributed across eastern North America, with records extending into Canada. The species is recognized as a potential pest of pine trees. Parasitoid wasps including Eupelmus sp. and Microctonus glyptosceli are known to attack this beetle.
leaf-beetle pine-pest parasitoid-host eastern-North-America Canadian-distribution
Gonioctena americana
American Aspen Beetle
Gonioctena americana is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the American aspen beetle. It is native to North America and has been documented in Canada, including Alberta, British Columbia, and Labrador. As a member of the genus Gonioctena, it is associated with woody host plants, though specific ecological details remain limited in published literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Populus aspen
Gonioctena notmani
Gonioctena notmani is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Schaeffer in 1924. It is a small beetle with limited available documentation. The species is recorded from scattered localities in North America including western Canada and Labrador.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Canadian-fauna
Graphops cavani
Graphops cavani is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus Graphops contains species commonly known as flea beetles or leaf beetles, many of which are associated with specific host plants. Very little published information exists specifically for G. cavani, with only two observations recorded on iNaturalist as of the source date. The species appears to be rarely encountered or underreported.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera data-deficient rarely-observed
Graphops comosa
Monahans sandhill chrysomelid, long-haired graphops, Monahans Graphops
Graphops comosa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, endemic to the sandhills region of the southwestern United States. The species is distinguished by its exceptionally dense covering of coarse white hairs, the heaviest pubescence of any member of its genus. The specific epithet "comosa" is Latin for "with long hair," directly referencing this diagnostic feature. The beetle's restricted distribution and distinctive appearance make it a notable component of the specialized sandhill fauna of the region.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae endemic sandhill pubescence New-Mexico Texas desert North-America
Graphops curtipennis
Graphops curtipennis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is distributed across North America. The species was described by F.E. Melsheimer in 1847. Phortus creticus, originally reported from Crete, was synonymized with this species by Daccordi in 1977 and is not actually found on that island. Two subspecies are recognized: G. c. curtipennis and G. c. schwarzi.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America synonymy Phortus-creticus
Graphops exilis
Graphops exilis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Blake in 1955. The genus Graphops belongs to the diverse leaf beetle family, whose members are primarily associated with feeding on plant foliage. This species is part of the North American fauna, though specific details about its biology remain limited.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera
Graphops floridana
Graphops floridana is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Blake in 1955. The species is known from Florida, with records indicating presence in North America. Very little published information exists regarding its biology, ecology, or conservation status. The genus Graphops belongs to the leaf beetle family, though specific details about this particular species remain sparse in the scientific literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Florida-endemic poorly-known-species North-America
Graphops simplex
Graphops simplex is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1884. It is native to North America. As a member of the leaf beetle family, it likely feeds on plant foliage, though specific host plants have not been documented in the available sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera Graphops LeConte-1884
Graphops tenuis
Graphops tenuis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Blake in 1955. The genus Graphops belongs to the subfamily Eumolpinae, a group of leaf beetles commonly known as eumolpines or oval leaf beetles. Little specific biological information is documented for this particular species. The genus name has been subject to taxonomic confusion, with some sources historically conflating it with Paragrilus, a genus of jewel beetles (Buprestidae), but these are unrelated taxa in different families.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae North-America
Graphops varians
Graphops varians is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by LeConte in 1884. The species is known from North America, with records from the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Manitoba. Like other members of the genus Graphops, it belongs to the diverse leaf beetle fauna of the region. Specific details regarding its biology, host plants, and ecology remain poorly documented in available literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Canada
Gratiana
Gratiana is a genus of tortoise beetles (family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae) comprising approximately seven described species. Members of this genus are characterized by the flattened, shield-like body form typical of tortoise beetles, with adults capable of clamping tightly against leaf surfaces as a defensive behavior. The genus is best known for Gratiana boliviana, which has been employed as a classical biological control agent against the invasive weed tropical soda apple (Solanum viarum) in the southeastern United States.
tortoise-beetle biological-control Cassidinae Solanum invasive-species-management herbivore leaf-beetle
Gratiana boliviana
Tropical Soda Apple Leaf Beetle, TSA tortoise beetle
Gratiana boliviana is a tortoise beetle (Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae) native to South America that was introduced to Florida in 2003 as the first biological control agent against tropical soda apple (Solanum viarum), a prickly invasive shrub. The beetle is highly host-specific and has established successfully in Florida, reducing weed density and fruit production through defoliation. Over 250,000 beetles were released across Florida from 2003 to 2011. The beetle cannot complete development on native North American Solanum species or crop plants like eggplant, making it a relatively safe biocontrol choice. Cold sensitivity limits its northward establishment potential.
biological-control invasive-species-management tortoise-beetle Solanum-specialist classical-biocontrol-success Florida-agriculture weed-biocontrol Cassidinae Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle host-specificity diapause pasture-pest-management South-American-native cold-limited-distribution
Griburius larvatus
Griburius larvatus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, occurring in North America. Adults measure 4.32–5.6 mm in length. As a member of the Clytrini tribe, it exhibits the characteristic behavior of constructing protective larval cases from fecal material and plant debris.
Clytrini case-bearing leaf-beetle Cryptocephalinae North-America
Griburius lecontii
Red-vested Griburius
Griburius lecontii is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America, with records extending to British Columbia, Canada. The species is one of approximately 99 observed taxa in the genus on iNaturalist. Like other members of the case-bearing leaf beetle group, it likely exhibits the characteristic behavior of constructing protective cases from fecal material and shed exuviae.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America
Griburius rileyi
Bold-spotted Griburius
Griburius rileyi is a recently described species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cryptocephalinae. The species was described by Sassi in 2023 and is distinguished by bold spotted patterns on its elytra. Like other members of the genus Griburius, adults are associated with oak woodlands and are attracted to ultraviolet light sources. The specific epithet honors Edward Riley, a prominent coleopterist and indefatigable collector of beetles, particularly known for his contributions to cerambycid and chrysomelid taxonomy.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Clytrini oak-associated nocturnal blacklight-attracted southwestern-North-America 2023-description eponymous-nomenclature
Helocassis
Helocassis is a genus of tortoise beetles (Cassidinae) in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. The genus contains at least seven described species distributed across Central and North America. These beetles are characterized by their distinctive shield-like body form typical of the subfamily.
tortoise-beetle leaf-beetle Cassidinae Cassidini Neotropical Nearctic
Helocassis clavata
Clavate Tortoise Beetle
Helocassis clavata, commonly known as the Clavate Tortoise Beetle, is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It belongs to the tortoise beetle subfamily Cassidinae, characterized by a domed, turtle-like carapace formed from modified elytra and pronotum. The species is found in North and Middle America. Like other tortoise beetles, it exhibits distinctive defensive and parental behaviors.
tortoise-beetle leaf-beetle Cassidinae Chrysomelidae North-America Middle-America Coleoptera Helocassis clavata Plagiometriona-clavata-synonym domed-carapace translucent-elytra gingerbread-man-pattern
Hemiglyptus basalis
Hemiglyptus basalis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to North America. The species was first described by Crotch in 1874. As a member of the leaf beetle family, it is likely associated with herbaceous vegetation, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented. The genus Hemiglyptus is a small group within the diverse Chrysomelidae, with limited published information on its biology.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America Hemiglyptus basalis Crotch-1874
Hemiphrynus intermedius
A leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Jacoby in 1884. The species occurs in North and Middle America, with 9 observations recorded on iNaturalist. Very little is known about its biology, ecology, or specific habitat requirements. The genus Hemiphrynus is not well-studied, and no detailed species-level information has been published for H. intermedius.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America Middle-America Jacoby-1884
Hemisphaerota cyanea
palmetto tortoise beetle, Florida tortoise beetle, iridescent blue chrysomelid beetle
Hemisphaerota cyanea is a small, metallic blue tortoise beetle in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. Adults measure 4.6–5.6 mm and possess distinctive hemispherical bodies with dark blue or purple elytra and pronotum. The species is endemic to the southeastern United States where it feeds exclusively on palms, particularly saw palmetto. Both adults and larvae exhibit remarkable defensive adaptations: adults use specialized adhesive tarsi with approximately 10,000 bristles per foot to clamp onto leaves, while larvae construct elaborate fecal thatches that conceal and protect them from predators.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle palmetto adhesion defense southeastern-US biomimicry fecal-thatch
Heptispa brevicornis
Heptispa brevicornis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus Heptispa is part of the diverse leaf beetle fauna, though specific ecological and biological details for H. brevicornis remain poorly documented. The species epithet 'brevicornis' refers to short antennae.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera short-antennae
Hilarocassis
Hilarocassis is a genus of tortoise beetles and hispines in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. It contains approximately 10 described species distributed primarily in the Neotropical region. The genus was established by Spaeth in 1913 and belongs to the subfamily Cassidinae, tribe Mesomphaliini. Species in this genus exhibit the characteristic tortoise beetle body form with a broad, flattened shape and expanded elytral margins.
tortoise-beetle hispine leaf-beetle Cassidinae Neotropical Spaeth-1913 Mesomphaliini Chrysomelidae Coleoptera shield-beetle
Hippuriphila
A genus of flea beetles in the family Chrysomelidae containing three described species distributed across the Nearctic and Palaearctic regions. The genus was established by Foudras in 1859. American specimens were historically misidentified as the Eurasian species H. adonidis until taxonomic revision established H. americana as a distinct species based on aedeagus morphology.
Chrysomelidae flea-beetle Coleoptera leaf-beetle Nearctic Palaearctic Hippuriphila Hippuriphila-americana Hippuriphila-canadensis Hippuriphila-equiseti Hippuriphila-modeeri Hippuriphila-adonidis Entomoscelis taxonomic-revision aedeagus-morphology
Hornaltica bicolorata
leaf-feeding beetle
Hornaltica bicolorata is a leaf-feeding beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species has been deployed as a biological control agent against the invasive weed Parthenium hysterophorus in East Africa, particularly Ethiopia and Uganda, where it has demonstrated consistent establishment. It was previously known under the synonym Zygogramma bicolorata in biocontrol literature. The beetle contributes to integrated pest management programs by defoliating the target weed.
biological-control invasive-species-management Parthenium-hysterophorus integrated-pest-management East-Africa Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle
Janbechynea
Janbechynea is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Orsodacnidae, containing at least 12 described species distributed in North America. The genus is named in honor of Czech entomologist Jan Bechyně. Adults of at least one species, J. elongata, are specialized herbivores of cycads. The genus is divided into two subgenera: Janbechynea and Bothroscelis.
leaf-beetle cycad-herbivore North-America Mexico Orsodacnidae gregarious-behavior morning-activity spring-emergence ornamental-pest Jan-Bechyně-eponym subgenera-Janbechynea-and-Bothroscelis
Kuschelina flavocyanea
Kuschelina flavocyanea is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, originally described by Crotch in 1873. The species is known from North America and has been documented in very few observations, suggesting it may be uncommon or underreported. As a member of the genus Kuschelina, it belongs to a group of flea beetles characterized by enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. Detailed biological information remains limited due to its apparent rarity in collections and observations.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Alticini rarely-observed North-America
Labidomera
milkweed leaf beetle
Labidomera is a genus of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) in the tribe Chrysomelini. The genus includes several species, with L. clivicollis being the most studied and widely distributed. Members are strongly associated with milkweed plants (Asclepias) and related genera. The genus exhibits unusual larval locomotion and participates in Müllerian mimicry rings with other orange-and-black milkweed insects.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae milkweed Müllerian-mimicry cardenolide-sequestration photoperiodism cannibalism sexual-transmission-of-parasites
Labidomera clivicollis
Swamp Milkweed Leaf Beetle, Milkweed Leaf Beetle
Labidomera clivicollis is a large leaf beetle specialized on milkweeds (Asclepias spp.). Adults and larvae feed on milkweed foliage, sequestering cardiac glycosides for chemical defense. The species exhibits aposematic orange and black coloration as part of a Müllerian mimicry complex with monarch butterflies and other milkweed feeders. Reproduction is photoperiodically controlled, with short day lengths inducing adult diapause. Larvae suffer high predation mortality, particularly from ground-dispersing predators.
leaf-beetle milkweed aposematic-coloration Müllerian-mimicry chemical-defense cardenolide-sequestration photoperiodism sexually-transmitted-parasite cannibalism predation-mortality swamp-milkweed common-milkweed Chrysomelidae herbivore diapause Kirby-1837
Lema
Lema is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Criocerinae, established by Fabricius in 1798. The genus includes species that feed on plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), with some species such as Lema daturaphila (three-lined potato beetle) known as agricultural pests. Members of this genus have evolved physiological adaptations to tolerate toxic alkaloids present in their host plants.
leaf-beetle Solanaceae-specialist alkaloid-tolerance aposematic-coloration excrement-defense
Lema confusa
Lema confusa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Chevrolat in 1835. It has a broad geographic distribution spanning the Caribbean, Central America, North America, and South America. As a member of the genus Lema, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles commonly associated with plants in the family Solanaceae.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Lema Coleoptera Caribbean Central-America North-America South-America Chevrolat-1835
Lema cyanella
Californian Thistle Leaf Beetle
Lema cyanella is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae investigated as a biological control agent for Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense). In Europe, it has been observed breeding primarily on C. arvense, though laboratory studies demonstrate broader feeding and reproductive capacity on Cirsium, Carduus, and Silybum genera. The species was introduced to New Zealand in 1981 and evaluated for release in North America. Females lay an average of 1564 eggs, with development from egg to adult taking approximately 17.6 days under controlled temperature conditions.
biological-control weed-biocontrol agricultural-pest-management invasive-species-management thistle-feeder Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Palearctic introduced-species
Lema daturaphila
Three-lined Potato Beetle
Lema daturaphila, the three-lined potato beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Native to Central and North America, it has spread to other regions including Africa and Oceania. Adults measure 7–8 mm and display bright orange-yellow coloration with three dark longitudinal stripes on the elytra. The species is a specialist herbivore of Solanaceae plants, particularly Datura species, though it occasionally feeds on agricultural crops such as tomato, potato, and eggplant. Larvae are slug-like with black heads and exhibit a distinctive defense behavior of covering themselves with excrement.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Solanaceae-specialist Datura agricultural-pest aposematic-coloration tritrophic-interaction parasitoid-defense invasive-potential
Lema trivittata
three-lined lema beetle, three-lined potato beetle
A leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, recognized by its bright orange thorax, yellow legs, and three black longitudinal stripes on yellow elytra. Adults and larvae feed on plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), including potato, jimsonweed, and bittersweet nightshade. The species has evolved physiological tolerance to tropane alkaloids, toxic compounds produced by its host plants. Native to Central and North America, with introduced populations in Australia.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Solanaceae apotemnatic-coloration tropane-alkaloid-tolerance agricultural-pest North-America Central-America Australia introduced-species
Leptinotarsa collinsi
Leptinotarsa collinsi is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Wilcox in 1972. It is native to North America and belongs to a genus that includes several economically significant agricultural pests, most notably the Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata). Unlike its congener L. decemlineata, L. collinsi has not been documented as a major crop pest.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Coleoptera North-America Leptinotarsa non-pest-species
Leptinotarsa defecta
Twoline Satansbos Leaf Beetle
Leptinotarsa defecta is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, closely related to the notorious Colorado potato beetle (L. decemlineata). Unlike its congener, L. defecta is not a major agricultural pest and has been observed feeding on Solanum species in Florida. The species has a broad geographic distribution spanning North America, Middle America, and Africa, though detailed natural history information remains sparse.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Solanaceae Solanum Florida host-plant-specialization
Leptinotarsa haldemani
Haldeman's green potato beetle
Leptinotarsa haldemani, commonly known as Haldeman's green potato beetle, is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is named after 19th-century American entomologist Samuel Stehman Haldeman. The species is distinguished by its glossy metallic green elytra, black head, and black appendages. It feeds primarily on wild Solanaceae species and is occasionally found on cultivated potatoes.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Solanaceae metallic-green Southwestern-US Mexico Central-America
Leptinotarsa lineolata
Burrobrush Leaf Beetle
Leptinotarsa lineolata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, closely related to the Colorado Potato Beetle. Adults measure 7-8 millimeters and display distinctive coloration: metallic green head and thorax with ivory elytra marked by black streaks. The species is a specialist herbivore, feeding exclusively on Burrobrush (Hymenoclea monogyra). Populations become abundant following summer monsoon rains, typically in early to mid-July.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae specialist-herbivore aposematic-coloration monsoon-active burrobrush riparian North-America Central-America
Leptinotarsa rubiginosa
reddish potato beetle
Leptinotarsa rubiginosa, the reddish potato beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is a congener of the well-known Colorado potato beetle (L. decemlineata) but is considerably less common and less studied. The species occurs in Central America and North America, with documented observations in the southwestern United States including Arizona. It has been collected from vegetation in canyon and desert grassland habitats.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Solanaceae-specialist congener-of-Colorado-potato-beetle Nearctic Neotropical
Leptinotarsa texana
Texas potato beetle
Leptinotarsa texana, commonly known as the Texas potato beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It has been investigated as a potential biological control agent for the invasive weed silverleaf nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium). The species has been documented as a host for the parasitoid wasp Edovum puttleri, which has been studied for biological control of the related Colorado potato beetle. Its host range includes multiple Solanum species, with field studies showing feeding on silverleaf nightshade and eggplant but not on potato.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Solanaceae biological-control silverleaf-nightshade host-range parasitoid-host
Lexiphanes affinis
Lexiphanes affinis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cryptocephalinae. The genus Lexiphanes belongs to the tribe Cryptocephalini, a group known for larvae that construct and carry protective cases from their own fecal material and plant debris. This species was described by Haldeman in 1849 and is native to North America. Like other members of its genus, it likely feeds on foliage of various plants, though specific host associations remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae North-America case-bearing-beetle
Lexiphanes seminulum
Lexiphanes seminulum is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was described by Suffrian in 1858. Very little published information exists regarding its biology, ecology, or distribution patterns. It belongs to a genus of small chrysomelids that are typically associated with herbaceous vegetation.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America data-deficient
Lilioceris cheni
air potato leaf beetle
Lilioceris cheni is a leaf-feeding beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to China and Nepal. It was introduced to Florida in 2012 as a classical biological control agent to combat the invasive air potato vine (Dioscorea bulbifera). The beetle has established successfully and is now widely distributed across the southern United States. Mass rearing programs produce over 50,000 beetles annually for release. Both larvae and adults feed on air potato foliage, causing significant damage that reduces vine density and bulbil production.
biological-control invasive-species-management leaf-beetle Dioscorea classical-biocontrol-success
Longitarsus erro
Longitarsus erro is a species of flea beetle (family Chrysomelidae) described by George Henry Horn in 1889. The species is known from Canada, with records from Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. As a member of the large genus Longitarsus, it belongs to a group of small leaf beetles characterized by their enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. Information regarding its specific biology, host plants, and ecology remains limited.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera Canada North-America
Longitarsus ferrugineus
Longitarsus ferrugineus is a small black flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Galerucinae. It belongs to a large genus of leaf beetles characterized by their enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The species has a broad distribution across much of Europe, with records from Great Britain through Central Europe to Italy and the Baltic states.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle European-beetle Chrysomelidae Galerucinae jumping-beetle
Longitarsus pellucidus
Longitarsus pellucidus is a flea beetle species in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. The species has a transcontinental distribution spanning Europe, Northern Asia (excluding China), and North America. Like other members of the genus Longitarsus, it possesses enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. Specific biological details remain poorly documented in available literature.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle jumping-beetle
Luperaltica
Luperaltica is a genus of flea beetles (Chrysomelidae: Alticini) established by Crotch in 1873. The genus contains at least four described species in North America, with additional species reported from Mexico. Like other flea beetles, members possess enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The genus is part of the diverse leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini North-America saltatorial
Luperaltica semiflava
Luperaltica semiflava is a species of flea beetle (Chrysomelidae) described by Fall in 1907. It is native to North America and belongs to the genus Luperaltica, a group of small leaf beetles characterized by enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The species is documented through limited observation records.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America
Luperosoma parallelum
Luperosoma parallelum is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, measuring 4.3–5.2 mm as an adult. The species is characterized by a reddish brown head and dark elytra with pale margins. It is known from a limited distribution in the south-central United States.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Coleoptera United-States Texas Oklahoma Kansas small-beetle
Lygistus
Lygistus is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, containing a single described species, Lygistus streptophallus. The genus was established by Wilcox in 1965. The sole species is found in the southwestern United States and adjacent Mexico.
monotypic leaf-beetle nearctic
Malacorhinus
Malacorhinus is a genus of skeletonizing leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, established by Jacoby in 1887. The genus contains approximately 30 described species distributed across North America and the Neotropics. One species, Malacorhinus irregularis, was introduced to Northern Territory, Australia in 2000 as a biological control agent against the invasive weed Mimosa pigra.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-feeder biological-control Chrysomelidae
Mantura chrysanthemi
Mantura chrysanthemi is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Koch in 1803. It is widely distributed across the Palearctic region, including Western Europe, Turkey, and North Africa. The species has also been introduced to North America.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Palearctic introduced-species
Margaridisa
Margaridisa is a genus of flea beetles (Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae) comprising at least 16 described species. The genus was established by Jan Bechyné in 1958. Species are distributed primarily in the Neotropical region, with records from Central and South America. Many species were described by Bechyné and his collaborators between the 1950s and 1990s.
flea-beetle Neotropical Chrysomelidae Galerucinae Bechyné leaf-beetle
Megacerus impiger
Megacerus impiger is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae. It occurs in Central America and North America. The genus Megacerus belongs to the subfamily Bruchinae, commonly known as seed beetles, though this species' specific biology remains poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae seed-beetle Bruchinae Central-America North-America Coleoptera
Megacerus maculiventris
Megacerus maculiventris is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus Megacerus is placed within the subfamily Bruchinae, commonly known as seed beetles or bean weevils, though these are true beetles rather than weevils. The species has been recorded across a broad geographic range spanning the Americas. Available sources provide minimal specific information about this species beyond its taxonomic placement and distribution.
leaf-beetle seed-beetle Bruchinae
Megalostomis subfasciata
Megalostomis subfasciata is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was originally described by LeConte in 1868. A 2013 taxonomic revision designated a lectotype for this species and synonymized two previously recognized subspecific forms: M. subfasciata majorubrofasciata and M. subfasciata murina. The species is recorded from North America and Central America.
case-bearing-beetle leaf-beetle Cryptocephalinae Clytrini North-America Central-America
Meibomeus musculus
Meibomeus musculus is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1831. It is native to North America with confirmed records from Canada (New Brunswick, Ontario, and Québec) and the United States. As a member of the leaf beetle family, it is associated with vegetation, though specific host plant relationships remain undocumented. The species is represented by 54 observations on iNaturalist, indicating it is encountered with some regularity by naturalists.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America herbivore
Merobruchus insolitus
White Dart Bruchid
Merobruchus insolitus is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Sharp in 1885. It is distributed across Central America and North America. The species is commonly known as the White Dart Bruchid. As a member of the genus Merobruchus, it belongs to a group of seed beetles typically associated with leguminous host plants.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Merobruchus leaf-beetle seed-beetle bruchid North-America Central-America White-Dart-Bruchid Sharp-1885
Merobruchus terani
Merobruchus terani is a species of seed beetle in the subfamily Bruchinae, described by Kingsolver in 1980. It belongs to a genus whose members are associated with legume seeds, though specific host records for this species remain limited. The species occurs in Central America and North America.
leaf-beetle seed-beetle Bruchinae Central-America North-America
Metachroma angusticolle
Metachroma angusticolle is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Blake in 1973. The species has a restricted distribution in the United States, with confirmed records only from Illinois and Indiana. As a member of the genus Metachroma, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles commonly known as 'metallic wood-boring beetles' or associated with leaf feeding habits, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae United-States-endemic rare data-deficient
Metachroma floridanum
Metachroma floridanum is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to the southeastern United States, with records spanning from Florida to North Carolina. The species was described by Crotch in 1873. As a member of the genus Metachroma, it belongs to a group of small leaf beetles whose biology remains poorly documented in the scientific literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae southeastern-United-States Florida
Metachroma interruptum
Metachroma interruptum is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is known from scattered records across the central and eastern United States, with a notably broad geographic range spanning from Texas to Florida and north to Indiana and Utah. Adults measure 4.4–6.0 mm in length. Very few observations exist in public databases, suggesting it may be underreported or genuinely uncommon.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae United-States underreported
Metachroma longulum
Metachroma longulum is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Horn in 1892. It is a member of the genus Metachroma, which comprises small to medium-sized leaf beetles found primarily in North America. The species has been recorded in the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Like other members of its family, it is associated with vegetation, though specific host plants and ecological details remain poorly documented.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Coleoptera North-America Canada Alberta Saskatchewan Horn-1892
Metachroma quercatum
Orange-shouldered Metachroma
Metachroma quercatum is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, measuring 3.2–4.2 mm in length. The species is distributed across the eastern United States from Texas to Florida and north to New York and Kansas. Its specific epithet references Quercus (oak), indicating an association with oak as a host plant.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae oak-associated eastern-United-States
Metachroma ustum
Burnt Metachroma
Metachroma ustum is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1858. It ranges from 4.8 to 7.0 mm in body length. The species occurs in both Central America and North America, with limited observational records available.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Central-America small-beetle
Metachroma viticola
Metachroma viticola is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, measuring 4.0–5.8 mm in length. The species was described by Linell in 1898 and is named for its association with grapevines. It is known from the Gulf Coast region of the United States and Mexico.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae pest grapevine viticulture Gulf-Coast
Metaparia clytroides
Metaparia clytroides is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus Metaparia was established to accommodate species previously placed in Spintherophyta and related genera, with taxonomic revisions moving several Central American species. This species is documented from the south-central United States.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae North-America metallic-beetle small-beetle
Metaparia opacicollis
Metaparia opacicollis is a small leaf beetle in the subfamily Eumolpinae. The species was originally described as Chrysodina opacicollis by Lefèvre in 1885 and later transferred to the genus Metaparia. It has been recorded from Argentina, specifically in the province of Corrientes. The genus Metaparia contains species formerly classified under Chrysodina and related genera.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae Neotropical Argentina taxonomic-revision
Metrioidea brunnea
Corn Silk Beetle
Metrioidea brunnea, commonly known as the corn silk beetle, is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America and feeds on corn silk and foliage. The species is recognized as a minor agricultural pest of maize. Limited detailed biological information is available for this species.
agricultural-pest maize-pest leaf-beetle skeletonizing-feeder
Metrioidea convexa
Metrioidea convexa is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, tribe Alticini. The species was described by Blake in 1942 and is recorded from North America. As a member of the genus Metrioidea, it belongs to a group of small leaf beetles characterized by enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The specific epithet 'convexa' refers to the convex body shape typical of this species.
leaf-beetle flea-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini North-America
Metrionella
Metrionella is a genus of tortoise beetles (Cassidinae) in the family Chrysomelidae, established by Spaeth in 1932. The genus comprises approximately 12 described species. As members of the tortoise beetle subfamily, these beetles are characterized by a distinctive shield-like body form with the elytra and pronotum expanded to cover the legs and antennae when at rest.
tortoise-beetle Cassidinae Chrysomelidae Coleoptera leaf-beetle shield-beetle
Microrhopala
Microrhopala is a genus of hispine leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, containing approximately 18 described species in North America. These small beetles are characterized by their clubbed antennae and association with herbaceous vegetation, particularly in prairie and old field habitats. The genus has been subject to taxonomic revision, with species historically placed in the subfamily Hispinae now classified within the more broadly defined Cassidinae. Ecological studies have demonstrated that some species, particularly M. vittata, can function as keystone herbivores capable of dramatically altering plant community structure through outbreaks.
hispine leaf-beetle leaf-miner goldenrod-specialist prairie-insect keystone-herbivore
Microrhopala excavata
Microrhopala excavata is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae (formerly Hispinae). Adults measure 4–5.6 mm (males) and 4.6–6.6 mm (females). The species exhibits metallic coloration, with adults appearing black, metallic green, blue, or purple. It is broadly distributed across North America, with two recognized subspecies showing partially overlapping ranges. The species has been recorded feeding on several Asteraceae host plants.
leaf-beetle Cassidinae hispine Asteraceae-feeder North-America metallic-coloration subspecies:-excavata-excavata subspecies:-excavata-cyanea
Microrhopala rileyi
Microrhopala rileyi is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. Adults measure 4.1–5.5 mm (males) and 5.2–5.8 mm (females). The species exhibits sexual size dimorphism with females being larger. It is known from five U.S. states in the south-central region.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cassidinae North-America sunflower-feeder
Microrhopala rubrolineata militaris
Microrhopala rubrolineata militaris is a subspecies of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. The genus Microrhopala comprises small hispine leaf beetles characterized by clubbed antennae. Species in this genus are host-specific herbivores, with adults feeding on foliage and larvae mining within leaves. The specific epithet "rubrolineata" (red-lined) and subspecific name "militaris" suggest distinctive coloration, though detailed distinguishing features from nominate M. rubrolineata are not documented in available sources.
Chrysomelidae Cassidinae hispine leaf-beetle subspecies Microrhopala herbivore mining-larva host-specific North-America
Microrhopala rubrolineata rubrolineata
A subspecies of hispine leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, Microrhopala rubrolineata rubrolineata is found in western North America. The species Microrhopala rubrolineata, along with the eastern M. vittata, belongs to a genus of leaf-feeding beetles that specialize on Asteraceae host plants. Adults and larvae both feed on their host plants, with larvae mining within leaves.
leaf-beetle hispine Cassidinae western-North-America Asteraceae leaf-miner Ambrosia chrysomelid subspecies LeConte-1859
Microrhopala rubrolineata signaticollis
Microrhopala rubrolineata signaticollis is a subspecies of hispine leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by J.L. LeConte in 1859. The genus Microrhopala comprises small leaf beetles with clubbed antennae, with several species occurring in North America. Members of this genus are herbivorous specialists typically associated with particular host plants in the Asteraceae family. This subspecies is part of the broader M. rubrolineata species complex distributed across North and Middle America.
Chrysomelidae Cassidinae hispine leaf-beetle North-America Middle-America herbivore Asteraceae-specialist subspecies
Microtheca
leaf beetles
Microtheca is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Chrysomelinae. The genus contains several economically important agricultural pests, particularly of Brassicaceae crops. The most extensively studied species include M. ochroloma (yellowmargined leaf beetle) and M. punctigera, both of which are oligophagous specialists on cruciferous plants. These beetles are native to the Neotropics but have become significant pests in organic agriculture systems where synthetic insecticides are restricted.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Brassicaceae-pest organic-agriculture trap-cropping oligophagous multivoltine Neotropical invasive-pest crucifer-specialist
Mimosestes amicus
Mimosestes amicus is a small beetle in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae, originally described as Bruchus amicus by Horn in 1873. It occurs in North America, Central America, and Hawaii. The species has been documented with new host plant records, though specific hosts are not detailed in available sources. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with leguminous plants.
leaf-beetle seed-beetle legume-associated
Mimosestes protractus
Mimosestes protractus is a species of leaf beetle first described by Horn in 1873. It belongs to the family Chrysomelidae, a diverse group of herbivorous beetles commonly known as leaf beetles. The species has been documented in both North America and Central America.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America Central-America
Miraces aeneipennis
Bronze-winged Buckthorn Leaf Beetle
Miraces aeneipennis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was first described by Jacoby in 1888. The species occurs in Central America and North America. The specific epithet aeneipennis refers to the bronze-colored wings. Very little detailed information is available about its biology or ecology.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America Central-America bronze-winged
Miraces placida
Miraces placida is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was described by Horn in 1893 and is known to occur in North America. As a skeletonizing leaf beetle, it likely feeds by consuming leaf tissue between the veins, leaving a characteristic lace-like pattern.
skeletonizing-leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera leaf-beetle
Monoaster fulgidus
Monoaster fulgidus is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, a group known for feeding on leaf tissue between veins. The species is documented from Texas in North America. Very little published information exists regarding its biology, ecology, or specific host associations.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Texas skeletonizing-beetle data-deficient
Monocesta
larger elm leaf beetle
Monocesta is a genus of skeletonizing leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus contains at least three described species, with Monocesta coryli being the most well-known and commonly encountered in eastern North America. These beetles are characterized by their feeding behavior that removes soft leaf tissue between veins, creating a distinctive skeletonized appearance on host leaves. The genus is primarily associated with elm trees and related woodland vegetation.
leaf-beetle skeletonizer elm-pest native-species Chrysomelidae biological-control forest-insect
Monoxia
Monoxia is a genus of skeletonizing leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Galerucinae. The genus contains approximately 16-18 described species distributed in North America and the Neotropics. At least one species, Monoxia obesula, has become invasive in Europe and North Africa. Members of this genus are associated with host plants in the family Amaranthaceae, particularly Atriplex and Chenopodium species.
Chrysomelidae Galerucinae leaf-beetle skeletonizing-leaf-beetle invasive-species saline-habitat Amaranthaceae Atriplex Chenopodium
Monoxia andrewsi
Monoxia andrewsi is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, tribe Alticini. The genus Monoxia comprises flea beetles characterized by their jumping ability enabled by enlarged hind femora. Species in this genus are associated with various host plants, though specific host relationships for M. andrewsi remain poorly documented in the available literature.
Chrysomelidae Alticini flea-beetle Monoxia Coleoptera leaf-beetle
Myochrous
Myochrous is a genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Eumolpinae, containing over 50 described species distributed across North, Central, and South America. The generic name derives from Ancient Greek words meaning 'mouse' and 'color'. Several species are agricultural pests, including Myochrous denticollis (southern corn leaf beetle), Myochrous melancholicus (banana pest), and Myochrous armatus (emerging soybean pest in Brazil). The genus was formerly placed in tribe Adoxini but is now classified in Eumolpini.
leaf-beetle agricultural-pest soybean-pest corn-pest banana-pest Eumolpinae Chrysomelidae
Myochrous magnus
Myochrous magnus is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by American entomologist Charles Frederic August Schaeffer in 1904. The species occurs in Central America and North America. As a member of the genus Myochrous, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles whose biology and ecology remain poorly documented in the scientific literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera Central-America North-America
Neltumius arizonensis
Black and White Black Variegated Bruchid
Neltumius arizonensis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, specifically placed in the seed beetle subfamily Bruchinae. The species is distributed across Central America and North America. Despite its specific epithet suggesting an Arizona connection, detailed ecological and biological information remains sparse in published literature.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Bruchinae seed-beetle leaf-beetle North-America Central-America
Neltumius texanus
Snakewood Bruchid
Neltumius texanus is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, found in Central America and North America. It is commonly known as the Snakewood Bruchid. The genus Neltumius was previously placed in the family Bruchidae (seed beetles) before that family was subsumed into Chrysomelidae. The specific epithet "texanus" indicates a connection to Texas, though the precise nature of this association (type locality or broader distribution) is not detailed in available sources. The species is represented by relatively few observations, with only 6 records documented on iNaturalist.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle bruchid seed-beetle North-America Central-America Texas
Neobrotica
Neobrotica is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Jacoby in 1887. The genus contains approximately 60 described species distributed across the Americas, from the southern United States through Central America to northern South America. Most species were described in the late 19th and mid-20th centuries, with significant contributions by Jacoby, Blake, and Bechyné. The genus is characterized by species with distinctive color patterns, often featuring maculations or fasciae on the elytra.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Americas
Neochlamisus
warty leaf beetles
Neochlamisus is a genus of case-bearing leaf beetles in the tribe Fulcidacini, commonly known as warty leaf beetles. Adults measure 3–4 mm and exhibit cryptic coloration resembling caterpillar frass. The genus comprises 17–18 species restricted to North America, including Mexico. These beetles are notable for their elaborate fecal case construction by larvae and have become important model organisms for studying host-associated speciation, particularly in N. bebbianae, which exhibits distinct host forms on different tree species.
case-bearing frass-mimicry cryptic-coloration host-specificity ecological-speciation model-organism leaf-beetle Camptosomata
Neochlamisus bimaculatus
warty leaf beetle
Neochlamisus bimaculatus is a small case-bearing leaf beetle in the tribe Chlamisini, commonly known as warty leaf beetles. The species is associated with Rubus spp., including blackberry, on which it mates, feeds, and oviposits. Like other members of the Camptosomata, it exhibits remarkable mimicry of caterpillar frass for protection against predators.
case-bearing frass-mimicry camptosomata leaf-beetle Rubus blackberry
Neochlamisus platani
sycamore leaf beetle
Neochlamisus platani, commonly known as the sycamore leaf beetle, is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. Adults are bronze to brown in color with a rough, bumpy exoskeleton that provides camouflage against bark and debris. The species is tightly associated with its host plant, the American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), where it feeds, mates, and oviposits. Both adults and larvae consume sycamore foliage, and heavy infestations can reduce foliage mass and damage ornamental value.
camouflage frass-mimicry case-bearing-larvae Platanus-occidentalis Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Chlamisini leaf-beetle sycamore-pest
Neochlamisus scabripennis
warty leaf beetle
Neochlamisus scabripennis is a species of warty leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It belongs to the tribe Chlamisini, commonly known as warty leaf beetles due to their distinctive irregular, tuberculate body surface. The species is distributed across Central America and North America. Like other members of the genus, it exhibits remarkable mimicry of caterpillar frass (feces) as a defensive adaptation.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Chlamisini warty-leaf-beetle frass-mimicry crypsis case-bearing-larva North-America Central-America
Neocrepidodera robusta
Neocrepidodera robusta is a species of flea beetle in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. It was described by LeConte in 1874. The species is known from North America, with records from western and central Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. As a member of the subfamily Alticinae, it possesses the enlarged hind femora characteristic of flea beetles, enabling jumping locomotion.
beetle flea-beetle leaf-beetle Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Alticinae North-America Canadian-fauna
Neofidia cana
Neofidia cana is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus Neofidia was established relatively recently, with species transferred from related genera based on morphological and phylogenetic studies. This species is part of a group of Neotropical leaf beetles. Records of this species remain sparse, with limited observational data available.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae Neotropical Coleoptera
Neofidia humeralis
Neofidia humeralis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was first described by French entomologist Édouard Lefèvre in 1877, originally as two separate species (Fidia humeralis and Fidia plagiata) that were later synonymized. The species occurs in the southwestern United States and Mexico, with records from Arizona, New Mexico, and southward through the Sierra Madre mountain systems to Oaxaca.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae southwestern-North-America Mexico Sierra-Madre
Neofidia longipes
Neofidia longipes is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, found in eastern North America. It has been documented feeding on a diverse range of host plants including American holly (Ilex opaca), willows (Salix), soybeans, and several members of the grape family (Vitaceae). The species is morphologically similar to Neofidia rileyorum, with females of the two species being indistinguishable without associated males. Both species occur sympatrically along portions of the Appalachian Mountains and in parts of Ohio and Alabama.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America herbivore polyphagous
Neofidia lurida
grape rootworm
Neofidia lurida, commonly known as the grape rootworm, is a leaf beetle in family Chrysomelidae. It is distributed across eastern North America, extending south to Mexico and north to Quebec. The species is recognized as an economic pest of grape cultivation due to larval feeding damage on roots. Adults are small, hairy beetles active in late spring and early summer.
leaf-beetle pest grape Vitaceae root-feeder eastern-North-America univoltine economic-pest Chrysomelidae
Neofidia texana
Neofidia texana is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, restricted to central and east-central Texas. It was originally described in 1934 by Charles Frederic August Schaeffer as a variety of Fidia viticida, but is now recognized as a distinct species. The species is associated with plants in the grape family (Vitaceae).
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Texas-endemic Vitaceae grape-family 1934-description Schaeffer formerly-Fidia-viticida-var.-texana
Neogalerucella calmariensis
black-margined loosestrife beetle, purple loosestrife beetle
A small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to Europe and Asia, that has been introduced to North America as a biological control agent for invasive purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). Adults and larvae feed on leaves and meristems of their host plant, causing significant damage that reduces plant vigor and seed production. The species is one of several Neogalerucella beetles used in loosestrife biocontrol programs.
leaf-beetle biological-control invasive-species-management wetland herbivore specialist
Neogalerucella lineola
Neogalerucella lineola is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is currently classified under the genus Neogalerucella, though it was historically placed in Galerucella. It belongs to a group of beetles commonly known as leaf beetles, which are primarily herbivorous and often associated with specific host plants. The taxonomic status of this species as a synonym of Galerucella lineola indicates ongoing revisions in the classification of this genus group.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera taxonomic-synonym
Neohaemonia nigricornis
Neohaemonia nigricornis is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Donaciinae. The species inhabits freshwater environments in North America, with a distribution spanning the northern United States and southern Canada. As a member of the tribe Haemoniini, it shares adaptations for aquatic life with related genera, though specific biological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle freshwater-insect Chrysomelidae Donaciinae North-America Canada United-States Kirby-1837
Neolema cordata
Neolema cordata is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by White in 1993. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from Ontario, Canada. As a member of the leaf beetle family, it likely feeds on plant material, though specific host associations remain undocumented. The genus Neolema is relatively small and understudied compared to related genera.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America Ontario White-1993 Neolema understudied-species
Neolema dorsalis
Neolema dorsalis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It has a broad geographic distribution spanning the Caribbean, Central America, North America, and South America. The species was originally described as Crioceris dorsalis by Olivier in 1791. It belongs to a genus of leaf beetles, with over 1,000 iNaturalist observations documenting its presence across its range.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera broadly-distributed
Neolochmaea dilatipennis
Neolochmaea dilatipennis is a leaf beetle (Chrysomelidae) described by Jacoby in 1886. The genus Neolochmaea comprises small to medium-sized leaf beetles primarily distributed in the Neotropical region. This species has been recorded across the Caribbean, North America, and South America. Available observation data suggests it is relatively well-documented, with over 800 records on iNaturalist.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Neotropical Jacoby-1886
Octotoma marginicollis
Octotoma marginicollis is a leaf beetle (family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae) occurring in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Adults have been recorded feeding on Perezia thurberi and collected from a variety of woody and herbaceous plants including Fraxinus, Baccharis, Brickellia, Viguiera, and Monarda species. The species was described by Horn in 1883.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle Cassidinae Chalepini Southwestern-US-fauna Mexican-fauna
Octotoma plicatula
Trumpet Creeper Leafminer, Trumpet Creeper Leaf Miner
Octotoma plicatula is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The common name 'Trumpet Creeper Leafminer' reflects its association with Campsis radicans, the trumpet creeper vine. The species is widespread in eastern and central North America.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae leaf-miner North-America Campsis-radicans
Odontota arizonica
Odontota arizonica is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, recorded from the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. The species has been collected on several plant species including oaks, legumes, and ornamental plants, though its specific foodplant relationships remain incompletely known. Like other members of the genus Odontota, it likely exhibits leaf-mining larval biology.
leaf-beetle Cassidinae Chalepini southwestern-North-America Baja-California Arizona New-Mexico oak-associated legume-associated
Odontota dorsalis
locust leaf miner, locust leafminer
Odontota dorsalis, commonly known as the locust leaf miner, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America and feeds primarily on black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and related species in the Fabaceae family. The beetle is known for producing distinctive 'scorched' damage on host trees, caused by both adult skeletonization and larval leaf mining. Two generations occur annually in most of its range.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae leaf-miner Robinia black-locust Fabaceae North-America pest skeletonization endophagous two-generations stridulation post-copulatory-escort nitrogen-fixing-host
Odontota floridana
Odontota floridana is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Butte in 1968. The species is known from a limited number of observations in North America, with records from the southeastern United States.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cassidinae Chalepini southeastern-United-States
Odontota horni
soybean leafminer
Odontota horni is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the soybean leafminer. It is found across a broad swath of eastern and central North America, with records from 28 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. The species is associated with leguminous host plants, including several Desmodium species, Tephrosia virginiana, and Glycine max (soybean), which gives it its common name.
leaf-beetle leafminer Chrysomelidae Cassidinae North-America legume-feeder soybean-pest
Odontota scapularis
orange-shouldered leaf miner, orange-shouldered leafminer
Odontota scapularis, commonly known as the orange-shouldered leaf miner, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is found across eastern and central North America, with records from Canada (Ontario) and numerous U.S. states. Larvae mine within leaves while adults feed externally on foliage. The species has been documented feeding on Apios americana (groundnut), a leguminous vine.
leaf-miner Chrysomelidae Cassidinae leaf-beetle North-America Apios legume-feeder
Odontota signaticollis
Odontota signaticollis is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, known from Honduras and central Mexico. The species has been documented from Mexico City, Durango, and Puebla. Its biology and ecology remain poorly studied compared to congeners such as the locust leafminer.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Mexico Honduras Coleoptera
Omophoita cyanipennis
Eight-spotted Flea Beetle
Omophoita cyanipennis, commonly known as the eight-spotted flea beetle, is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was described by Fabricius in 1798. It is distributed across the Caribbean, Central America, and North America. Two subspecies are recognized: O. c. cyanipennis and O. c. octomaculata.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Alticini
Oomorphus floridanus
Oomorphus floridanus is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Horn in 1893. The species occurs in the Caribbean and North America, with documented association with young pine foliage. Unusually among leaf beetles, it has been observed engaging in coprophagy, specifically feeding on the excreta of the eastern woodrat (Neotoma floridana).
coprophagy leaf-beetle pine-associated
Opacinota
Opacinota is a genus of tortoise beetles (family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae) described by E. Riley in 1986. It is monotypic, containing only the single species O. bisignata. Tortoise beetles are known for their domed, shield-like body shape that extends from the pronotum to cover the elytra. The genus belongs to the tribe Cassidini within the leaf beetle family.
tortoise-beetle monotypic-genus Cassidinae leaf-beetle
Ophraea
Ophraea is a genus of skeletonizing leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae. The genus contains approximately eight described species, with twelve species names listed in taxonomic records. Members are distributed across North America and the Neotropics. These beetles are characterized by their leaf-feeding behavior, specifically skeletonizing plant tissue between leaf veins.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle Chrysomelidae Galerucinae North-America Neotropics
Ophraea rugosa
Ophraea rugosa is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Jacoby in 1886. The species has a transcontinental distribution spanning from the southwestern United States through Mexico to Central America. It is one of approximately 13 species in the genus Ophraea, a group of leaf beetles primarily distributed in the Neotropical and Nearctic regions.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Nearctic Neotropical Arizona Mexico Costa-Rica
Ophraella bilineata
Skeletonizing leaf beetle
Ophraella bilineata is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is characterized by its distinctive striped elytra and is found across North America. As a member of the Galerucinae subfamily, it exhibits the typical leaf beetle morphology with compact body form and herbivorous feeding habits.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle Asteraceae-herbivore biological-control ragweed-feeder Chrysomelidae Galerucinae North-American-fauna striped-beetle Ophraella
Ophraella conferta
Crowded Leaf Beetle
Ophraella conferta is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the Crowded Leaf Beetle. The species is distributed across North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick) and the United States. As a member of the genus Ophraella, it shares the characteristic leaf-feeding habits of this group, though specific host plant associations for this species are not well documented in the available literature.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle North-American-fauna Chrysomelidae
Ophraella notata
Boneset Leaf Beetle
Ophraella notata is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the Boneset Leaf Beetle. It has a documented association with Eupatorium perfoliatum (boneset) as its host plant. The species ranges across eastern and central North America, from New Mexico to Florida and north to New Brunswick and Wyoming.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae specialist-herbivore North-America boneset
Ophraella notulata
Marsh Elder Leaf Beetle
Ophraella notulata is a Nearctic skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, found in Gulf Coast states of the United States and Mexico. It was previously described as O. integra (LeConte), now synonymized with O. notulata (Fabricius). The species is specialized on host plants in the Asteraceae family, primarily Iva frutescens (marsh elder), with documented ability to utilize Ambrosia artemisiifolia (ragweed) as an alternative host. Research has demonstrated complex transgenerational effects of host plant on offspring fitness and behavior.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae skeletonizer specialist-herbivore transgenerational-effects host-plant-plasticity coastal-wetland Asteraceae Iva univoltine Nearctic Gulf-Coast
Ophraella sexvittata
Six-lined Goldenrod Leaf Beetle
Ophraella sexvittata is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is one of 13 recognized species in the Nearctic genus Ophraella. The species is a specialist herbivore associated with goldenrods (Solidago spp.) in the southeastern United States.
leaf-beetle skeletonizer goldenrod-specialist southeastern-US-endemic
Orsodacne atra
Silver-backed Orsodacnid Beetle
Orsodacne atra is a small leaf beetle in the family Orsodacnidae, distributed across North and Central America. Adults are frequently observed on flowers of woody shrubs and trees, particularly in early spring. The species is one of the few members of its family in North America.
leaf-beetle spring-flower-visitor Orsodacnidae pollen-feeding
Oulema
Cereal leaf beetles
Oulema is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Criocerinae. The genus contains approximately 100 species distributed primarily in temperate to tropical regions. Several species are economically important agricultural pests, most notably Oulema melanopus (cereal leaf beetle), which has been introduced to North America and causes significant damage to wheat and other small grain crops. The genus can be distinguished from the closely related Lema by pronotum shape and the converging angle of frontal grooves.
leaf-beetle agricultural-pest cereal-crops temperate-distribution Criocerinae
Oulema concolor
Oulema concolor is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by J.L. LeConte in 1884. It is distributed across Central America and North America. The genus Oulema belongs to the subfamily Criocerinae, commonly known as cereal leaf beetles and their relatives. As with many Oulema species, detailed biological information remains limited in published literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Criocerinae Central-America North-America Coleoptera
Oulema elongata
Oulema elongata is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by R. White in 1993. The species belongs to the subfamily Criocerinae, a group commonly known as cereal leaf beetles and allies. Members of the genus Oulema are typically associated with monocot plants, particularly grasses. Very few observations of this species have been documented, with only two records in iNaturalist as of the knowledge cutoff.
Chrysomelidae Criocerinae leaf-beetle North-America grass-associated understudied-species
Oulema maculicollis
Oulema maculicollis is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Criocerinae. The species is native to North America. As a member of the genus Oulema, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles commonly known as cereal leaf beetles, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented in available sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Criocerinae North-America Oulema cereal-leaf-beetle-group
Oulema margineimpressa
Oulema margineimpressa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Criocerinae. It was described by Schaeffer in 1933 and is known from North America. Members of the genus Oulema are commonly referred to as cereal leaf beetles, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Criocerinae North-America Schaeffer-1933 data-deficient
Oulema melanopus
cereal leaf beetle
Oulema melanopus is a leaf beetle native to Eurasia that was introduced to North America in 1962, where it has since become a significant economic pest of small grain crops. The species is particularly damaging to spring wheat and oats, with outbreaks that are sporadic and difficult to predict. Larval feeding causes the most damage by skeletonizing leaves. Management relies on insecticides, though biological control using introduced parasitoids and host plant resistance breeding programs offer promising alternatives.
agricultural-pest cereal-crops biological-control invasive-species leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae integrated-pest-management host-plant-resistance
Oulema palustris
Marsh Cereal Leaf Beetle
Oulema palustris is a North American leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is a specialist herbivore associated with thistles, with larvae functioning as leaf miners and adults feeding externally on foliage. The specific epithet 'palustris' refers to marshy habitats, though the species' exact habitat preferences require further documentation.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Criocerinae thistle-specialist leaf-miner North-America herbivore
Oulema sayi
Oulema sayi is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Crotch in 1873 and is known from North America. The genus Oulema includes numerous leaf beetle species, many of which are associated with grasses and cereal crops.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America
Pachybrachis alticola
Pachybrachis alticola is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle first described by Fall in 1915. It belongs to the genus Pachybrachis, a diverse group of small, rounded leaf beetles characterized by their compact bodies and often patterned elytra. The species name "alticola" suggests an association with higher elevations, though specific habitat preferences remain poorly documented. Like other members of its genus, it likely feeds on various herbaceous plants and shrubs.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Cryptocephalinae Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America montane
Pachybrachis brevicollis
Pachybrachis brevicollis is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1880. It belongs to the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, a group known for larvae that construct protective cases from their own excrement and shed skins. The species is distributed across North America, with records from the southwestern United States including Arizona.
leaf-beetle Cryptocephalinae case-bearing-beetle North-America Arizona oak-juniper-woodland nocturnal light-attracted
Pachybrachis brevicornis
Pachybrachis brevicornis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fall in 1915. The genus Pachybrachis contains numerous small leaf beetle species, many of which are poorly known biologically. The specific epithet "brevicornis" refers to short antennae, a trait distinguishing this species from congeners.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America case-bearing-beetle
Pachybrachis calidus
case-bearing leaf beetle
Pachybrachis calidus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle (family Chrysomelidae) described by Fall in 1915. It occurs in Central and North America, where it inhabits mesquite-acacia scrub and oak-juniper woodland habitats. The species has been documented at light traps in southeastern Arizona, with adults active in late July. Like other members of the genus, it likely carries its eggs in a protective case constructed from fecal material.
leaf-beetle Cryptocephalinae case-bearing-beetle desert-fauna nocturnal
Pachybrachis coloradensis
Pachybrachis coloradensis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was described by Bowditch in 1909. It belongs to a genus commonly known as scriptured leaf beetles, recognized for their hardened forewings that form protective cases over the abdomen. Information specific to this species remains limited in published literature.
Chrysomelidae Coleoptera leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle
Pachybrachis convictus
Pachybrachis convictus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fall in 1915. The genus Pachybrachis is among the largest genera of North American leaf beetles, with species typically associated with woody vegetation. This species has been documented in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona. Like other members of the genus, it is likely associated with oaks and related woody plants, though specific host records for this species are not well documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Clytrinae case-bearing-beetle Arizona oak-woodland jumping-beetle
Pachybrachis cruentus
Pachybrachis cruentus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1880. It belongs to the genus Pachybrachis, a diverse group of small leaf beetles commonly known as scriptured leaf beetles. The species is recorded from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in available literature.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera
Pachybrachis deceptor
Pachybrachis deceptor is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is part of the diverse genus Pachybrachis, which contains numerous small, often colorful species found primarily in North America. The species name "deceptor" suggests a potentially misleading or cryptic appearance. Like other members of its genus, it likely feeds on foliage of various plants and has a life cycle involving larvae that carry protective cases.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Coleoptera Pachybrachis North-America Arizona
Pachybrachis diversus
Screwbean Pachy
Pachybrachis diversus is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cryptocephalinae. It belongs to a large genus of North American cryptocephaline beetles commonly known as 'scripture beetles' for their often ornate elytral patterns. The species was described by Fall in 1915 and has been collected in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona. Based on field observations, it appears to be attracted to ultraviolet and mercury-vapor lights in oak-juniper woodland habitats.
leaf-beetle Cryptocephalinae light-attracted oak-associated southwestern-US-endemic
Pachybrachis dubiosus
Pachybrachis dubiosus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by J.L. LeConte in 1880. The species belongs to a genus characterized by small, rounded leaf beetles that often carry egg cases or debris on their bodies. Records indicate presence in North America, with observations documented in the southwestern United States.
leaf-beetle case-bearing Chrysomelidae Pachybrachis Coleoptera North-America southwestern-United-States Arizona New-Mexico oak-juniper-woodland nocturnal light-attracted
Pachybrachis femoratus
case-bearing leaf beetle
Pachybrachis femoratus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. The genus Pachybrachis is characterized by its case-bearing habit, where larvae construct protective cases from fecal material and exuviae. This species is one of many in a large genus of small leaf beetles.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America
Pachybrachis fuscipes
Pachybrachis fuscipes is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fall in 1915. It is native to North America and belongs to a genus of small, often colorful beetles commonly known as scriptured leaf beetles. The species has two recognized subspecies: P. f. fuscipes and P. f. purgatus. Like other members of its genus, it likely feeds on plant foliage, though specific host associations remain poorly documented.
Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle
Pachybrachis gilberti
Pachybrachis gilberti is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Barney in 2019. The genus Pachybrachis contains numerous small, often colorful leaf beetles commonly known as 'scriptured leaf beetles' due to their frequently ornate elytral patterns. This species was documented during a 2021 collecting trip in southeastern Arizona, where specimens were attracted to ultraviolet and mercury-vapor light stations in mesquite-acacia scrub habitat. As a recently described species, detailed natural history information remains limited.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Pachybrachis leaf-beetle case-bearing-leaf-beetle scriptured-leaf-beetle Arizona southwestern-United-States nocturnal light-attracted recently-described 2019
Pachybrachis gracilipes
Pachybrachis gracilipes is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Fall in 1915. It belongs to a genus of small, often cryptically colored leaf beetles commonly known as "scriptured leaf beetles" due to their intricate patterns. The species is documented from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Fall-1915
Pachybrachis hector
Pachybrachis hector is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Fall in 1915. It belongs to a genus of small leaf beetles known for their rounded, convex bodies and enlarged hind femora. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-leaf-beetle North-America Pachybrachis Fall-1915 Coleoptera
Pachybrachis jacobyi
Pachybrachis jacobyi is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Bowditch in 1909. The species has been documented in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, where it has been collected at light stations in mesquite-acacia scrub and oak-juniper woodland habitats. Like other members of the genus Pachybrachis, it is likely associated with woody vegetation, though specific host plant relationships remain poorly documented.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Pachybrachis southwestern-United-States Arizona nocturnal light-attracted case-bearing-beetle
Pachybrachis kentuckyensis
Pachybrachis kentuckyensis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cryptocephalinae. The genus Pachybrachis is a large North American group commonly known as "scriptured leaf beetles" due to the intricate patterns on their elytra. Species in this genus are typically small, compact beetles associated with various host plants. Pachybrachis kentuckyensis is one of many species in this taxonomically challenging genus that requires careful examination for identification.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Pachybrachini leaf-beetle scriptured-leaf-beetle Coleoptera North-America Kentucky
Pachybrachis latithorax
Tamaulipan Freckled Pachy
Pachybrachis latithorax is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It occurs in Central America and North America. The species belongs to a genus commonly known as 'scriptured leaf beetles' for their often intricate elytral patterns. Like other members of Pachybrachis, it is presumed to feed on foliage of various plants, though specific host associations remain poorly documented.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Pachybrachis Coleoptera Central-America North-America
Pachybrachis lustrans
Pachybrachis lustrans is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1880. The species is distributed across Central America and North America. As a member of the genus Pachybrachis, it belongs to a group commonly known as scriptured leaf beetles, recognized for their often ornate elytral patterns. Specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented in published literature.
Chrysomelidae Coleoptera leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Central-America LeConte-1880
Pachybrachis melanostictus
Pachybrachis melanostictus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America, with documented records from Canada including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. The species belongs to a genus of small leaf beetles commonly known as scriptured leaf beetles.
leaf-beetle Coleoptera Chrysomelidae North-America case-bearing-beetle
Pachybrachis mellitus
Dark-honey Creosote Pachy
Pachybrachis mellitus is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Bowditch in 1909. The species is known from southwestern North America and has been documented in association with creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) and other desert vegetation. The common name "Dark-honey Creosote Pachy" reflects both its coloration and apparent habitat preference. It is one of numerous Pachybrachis species found in the arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
leaf-beetle desert-beetle Cryptocephalinae Pachybrachini creosote-bush-associate nocturnal attracted-to-light southwestern-US-fauna
Pachybrachis minor
Pachybrachis minor is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Bowditch in 1909. The genus Pachybrachis contains numerous species of flea beetles and leaf beetles found primarily in North America. This species is recorded from western Canada including British Columbia and Manitoba.
Chrysomelidae Coleoptera leaf-beetle North-America Canada
Pachybrachis mobilis
Pachybrachis mobilis is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Fall in 1915. The species belongs to a genus of small, often colorful beetles known for their hardened forewings that protect the hindwings and abdomen. It is native to North America. Available information on this species is limited, with only two observations recorded on iNaturalist.
leaf-beetle case-bearing Chrysomelidae North-America rarely-observed
Pachybrachis nigricornis
Pachybrachis nigricornis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, originally described by Thomas Say in 1824 as Cryptocephalus nigricornis. The species is distributed across North America and Central America, with records from Canada (Alberta) through the United States. It belongs to a large genus of small, often colorful leaf beetles commonly known as 'scriptured leaf beetles' due to their intricate elytral patterns. Four subspecies are currently recognized.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Central-America Pachybrachis
Pachybrachis nigricornis autolycus
Pachybrachis nigricornis autolycus is a subspecies of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fall in 1915. It belongs to the genus Pachybrachis, a group of small, often colorful leaf beetles commonly known as "scriptured leaf beetles" due to their intricate patterns. The subspecies is recognized as accepted in taxonomic databases and has been documented in North America and Middle America, with specific records from Alberta, Canada.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera subspecies North-America Middle-America
Pachybrachis nobilis
Pachybrachis nobilis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Fall in 1915. It belongs to a genus of small, often colorful beetles commonly known as scriptured leaf beetles. The species is recorded from North America, though specific details regarding its biology and ecology remain limited in the available literature.
Chrysomelidae Coleoptera leaf-beetle North-America case-bearing-leaf-beetle
Pachybrachis obsoletus
Pachybrachis obsoletus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It belongs to a genus known for constructing protective larval cases from fecal material. The species has been recorded across North America, with confirmed observations in Canada including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America
Pachybrachis othonus
Legume Case-bearing Leaf Beetle
Pachybrachis othonus is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the Legume Case-bearing Leaf Beetle. The species was described by Thomas Say in 1825 and is native to North America. It belongs to a genus characterized by larvae that construct protective cases from fecal material and shed skins.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle legume-feeder Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae North-America southwestern-United-States nocturnal light-attracted
Pachybrachis othonus pallidipennis
Pachybrachis othonus pallidipennis is a subspecies of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is a small leaf beetle with limited available documentation. The subspecies was described by Suffrian in 1858. Records indicate presence in North America. Specific biological details for this subspecies are poorly documented in available sources.
leaf-beetle flea-beetle Chrysomelidae subspecies data-deficient
Pachybrachis othonus sioux
Pachybrachis othonus sioux is a subspecies of case-bearing leaf beetle described by Balsbaugh in 1973. It belongs to the genus Pachybrachis, a diverse group of small, convex leaf beetles commonly known as scriptured leaf beetles. The subspecies epithet "sioux" suggests an association with the northern Great Plains region inhabited by the Sioux people. As a member of Chrysomelidae, it shares the family characteristics of herbivorous feeding and compact body form.
Chrysomelidae Pachybrachis leaf-beetle subspecies North-America Great-Plains
Pachybrachis pectoralis
A case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Melsheimer in 1847. It is one of numerous small, rounded leaf beetles in the genus Pachybrachis, commonly referred to as script-bearing leaf beetles due to the often intricate markings on their elytra. The species occurs in North America, with records from Canada (Ontario, Québec) and the United States. Like other members of its genus, it likely feeds on various herbaceous plants and shrubs.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America nocturnal light-attracted
Pachybrachis picturatus
Pachybrachis picturatus is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cryptocephalinae. The genus Pachybrachis contains numerous small, often colorfully patterned species commonly known as case-bearing leaf beetles due to the larval habit of constructing protective cases from fecal material. This species was described by Germar in 1824 and occurs in North America.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle case-bearing-leaf-beetle North-America Arizona light-attracted
Pachybrachis postfasciatus
Pachybrachis postfasciatus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle described by Fall in 1915. It belongs to the family Chrysomelidae, a large group of herbivorous beetles commonly known as leaf beetles. The species is documented from North America. Like other members of the genus Pachybrachis, it is likely associated with vegetation in its habitat, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Arizona nocturnal light-attracted
Pachybrachis pusillus
Bulge-eyed Yellow Pachy
Pachybrachis pusillus is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cryptocephalinae. The species is known from the southwestern United States and Mexico. Adults have been collected at light traps in mesquite-acacia scrub and oak-juniper woodland habitats in Arizona. The common name "Bulge-eyed Yellow Pachy" refers to distinctive eye morphology and coloration typical of the genus.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Southwestern-US Mexico nocturnal light-attracted
Pachybrachis quadratus
Pachybrachis quadratus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Fall in 1915. It is found in North America. Members of the genus Pachybrachis are commonly known as "scriptured leaf beetles" due to the intricate patterns on their elytra. The species has been documented in field collections from mesquite and oak habitats in the southwestern United States.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae case-bearing-leaf-beetle scriptured-leaf-beetle nocturnal light-attracted
Pachybrachis signatifrons
Pachybrachis signatifrons is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. The species was described by Mannerheim in 1843. Like other members of its genus, it belongs to the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, which are characterized by larvae that construct and carry protective cases.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Arizona nocturnal light-attracted
Pachybrachis signatus
Pachybrachis signatus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is a small beetle within the diverse genus Pachybrachis, which comprises numerous North American species often difficult to distinguish without close examination. The species was described by Bowditch in 1909. Available records indicate it occurs in North America, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America
Pachybrachis snowi
Pachybrachis snowi is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America. The species was described by Bowditch in 1909. Beyond its taxonomic placement and geographic occurrence, detailed biological information about this species remains limited in available sources.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle North-America case-bearing-beetle Coleoptera
Pachybrachis sonorensis
Finely-punctate Sonoran Pachy
Pachybrachis sonorensis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Jacoby in 1889. It is native to North America, with records from the southwestern United States and adjacent regions. The species belongs to a large genus of small leaf beetles characterized by their rounded, convex body form and enlarged hind femora.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Coleoptera North-America Sonoran Pachybrachis
Pachybrachis stygicus
Pachybrachis stygicus is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Fall in 1915. The genus Pachybrachis is part of the tribe Pachybrachini, commonly known as the scriptured leaf beetles for their often intricate elytral patterns. The species epithet 'stygicus' derives from Greek mythology, referring to the river Styx, suggesting dark or gloomy coloration. Records indicate presence in North America, with observations documented in the southwestern United States.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Pachybrachini scriptured-leaf-beetle Southwestern-United-States Arizona nocturnal light-attracted
Pachybrachis subfasciatus
Pachybrachis subfasciatus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is a small beetle native to North America, with records from Canada (Manitoba, Ontario) and the United States. The species is part of the diverse genus Pachybrachis, which contains numerous similar-looking species that are often difficult to distinguish without close examination.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Cryptocephalinae North-America
Pachybrachis tacitus
A small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fall in 1915. Like other members of the genus Pachybrachis, this species is part of a diverse group of case-bearing leaf beetles found in North America. The species is documented from limited collection records, with observations spanning the southwestern United States.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Pachybrachis southwestern-United-States Arizona oak-woodland case-bearing-beetle
Pachybrachis texanus
Tall Texas Pachy
Pachybrachis texanus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in Central America and North America. The species is relatively poorly documented, with approximately 80 observations recorded on iNaturalist. It belongs to a genus of small leaf beetles known for their rounded, convex body form and often colorful or patterned elytra.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Coleoptera North-America Central-America
Pachybrachis texasensis
Pachybrachis texasensis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Robert J. Barney in 2021. The species is part of the diverse genus Pachybrachis, which contains numerous small, often colorful beetles associated with various host plants. As a recently described species, detailed biological information remains limited.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Pachybrachini leaf-beetle case-bearing-leaf-beetle recently-described 2021 Texas
Pachybrachis trinotatus
Pachybrachis trinotatus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Melsheimer in 1847. The species is distributed across North America, with records from Canada (Ontario and Québec) and the United States. As a member of the genus Pachybrachis, it belongs to a group commonly known as scriptured leaf beetles, characterized by their compact bodies and often patterned elytra. Specific ecological details about this species remain limited in published literature.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America scriptured-leaf-beetle
Pachybrachis turbidus
Robust Plains Pachy
Pachybrachis turbidus is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the Robust Plains Pachy. It belongs to a large genus of small, often colorful leaf beetles found primarily in North America. The species has been documented through 386 iNaturalist observations, indicating it is moderately well-observed but not extensively studied in the scientific literature.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Pachybrachis Coleoptera Cryptocephalinae North-America
Pachybrachis turgidicollis
Pachybrachis turgidicollis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It has been documented in North America, specifically recorded from Arizona and Texas. The species was described by Fall in 1915. Like other members of the genus, it belongs to the tribe Pachybrachini, which are known for their compact bodies and enlarged hind femora.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Pachybrachini leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Arizona Texas Fall-1915
Pachybrachis varians
Pachybrachis varians is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Bowditch in 1909. The genus Pachybrachis belongs to the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, a group known for larvae that construct protective cases from fecal material and exuviae. Like other members of this genus, P. varians is likely small in size and associated with specific host plants, though detailed biological information for this particular species remains limited. The species occurs in North America.
Cryptocephalinae case-bearing-leaf-beetle North-America Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Pachybrachis Bowditch-1909 leaf-beetle
Pachybrachis vau
Pachybrachis vau is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fall in 1915. The genus Pachybrachis comprises numerous small, often colorful leaf beetles commonly known as 'scriptured leaf beetles' due to their intricate elytral patterns. Like other members of this genus, P. vau is likely associated with specific host plants, though detailed biological information for this particular species remains limited.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Pachybrachis leaf-beetle North-America scriptured-leaf-beetle
Pachybrachis vulnerosus
A species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fall in 1915. It belongs to the tribe Pachybrachini, a group known for their hardened, case-like elytra that protect the abdomen. The species is found in North America, with specific records from the southwestern United States including Arizona.
Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae Pachybrachini leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Arizona
Pachybrachis wenzeli
case-bearing leaf beetle
Pachybrachis wenzeli is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found primarily in North America. The species belongs to a genus known for larvae that construct protective cases from their own fecal material. Specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented in published literature.
leaf-beetle Cryptocephalinae North-America
Pachybrachis xanti
Split-neck Creosote Pachy
Pachybrachis xanti is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is commonly known as the "Split-neck Creosote Pachy" and has been documented in North America and Middle America. Like other members of the genus Pachybrachis, it carries a protective case constructed from fecal material and exuviae.
Chrysomelidae case-bearing-beetle leaf-beetle Pachybrachis North-America Middle-America creosote-bush-association
Pachybrunneus
Pachybrachis brunneus is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is found in North America. As a member of the genus Pachybrachis, it belongs to a group of small leaf beetles commonly known as scriptured leaf beetles, recognized for their often intricate elytral patterns.
Chrysomelidae Coleoptera leaf-beetle case-bearing-leaf-beetle North-America Pachybrachis scriptured-leaf-beetle
Paranapiacaba connexa
Twin-Shield Leaf Beetle
Paranapiacaba connexa is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is distributed across Central America and North America. The common name "Twin-Shield Leaf Beetle" refers to its distinctive elytral pattern. Like other members of its family, it is herbivorous and feeds on plant foliage.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Central-America
Parasyrphus
Bristleside Flies
Parasyrphus is a genus of hoverflies (Syrphidae) comprising 31 described species distributed across the Holarctic region. Adults are small to medium-sized (5.6–11 mm) with characteristic yellow abdominal markings. The genus exhibits notable larval trophic diversity: most known larvae are aphid predators on trees, while at least two species (P. nigritarsis and P. melanderi) are specialist predators of leaf beetle eggs and larvae. This dietary specialization is unusual among syrphid flies and involves sophisticated chemical ecology where predators exploit prey defensive secretions as foraging cues.
predator specialist chemical-ecology kairomone leaf-beetle aphid Holarctic arboreal tri-trophic-interaction biological-control hoverfly Syrphidae
Paratriarius dorsatus
skeletonizing leaf beetle
Paratriarius dorsatus is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1824. It is found in North America. The species belongs to a genus of leaf beetles characterized by their skeletonizing feeding behavior on plant foliage. Very little specific biological information is documented for this particular species.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America
Paria arizonensis
Paria arizonensis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Wilcox in 1957. It is found in North America. The genus Paria comprises multiple species of leaf beetles, though specific details about the biology and ecology of P. arizonensis remain poorly documented in published literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America Paria
Paria fragariae-complex
Paria fragariae-complex is a species complex of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae. Members of this complex are associated with strawberry (Fragaria) and related plants. The complex designation indicates taxonomic uncertainty, with multiple cryptic or poorly differentiated species grouped under this name. These beetles are part of the subfamily Eumolpinae, a group of small to medium-sized leaf beetles often associated with specific host plants.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle strawberry-pest Eumolpinae species-complex agricultural-pest North-America
Paria opacicollis
oak parium
Paria opacicollis, commonly known as the oak parium, is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1859. The species occurs in North America and includes two recognized subspecies: P. o. opacicollis and P. o. wenzeli. As a member of the genus Paria, it belongs to a group of small leaf beetles often associated with woody vegetation.
leaf-beetle oak-associated North-American subspecies-present
Paria pratensis
Paria pratensis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Eumolpinae. It is found in the eastern United States and eastern Canada, with confirmed records from Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and the eastern United States. The species has been documented feeding on the prairie rose (Rosa setigera), though its full host range remains incompletely known. Like other members of the genus Paria, it likely feeds on foliage of its host plants.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Rosaceae-feeder Nearctic prairie-habitat
Paria quadriguttata
Willow Paria, willow parium
Paria quadriguttata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the willow parium. The species occurs in Central and North America. As a member of the genus Paria, it is associated with willow hosts (Salix spp.), though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in available sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae willow-associated North-America Central-America
Paria quadrinotata
Four-marked Oval Leaf Beetle
Paria quadrinotata is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1824. It is native to North America, with records from Canada (Ontario, Québec) and the United States (Vermont). The common name "Four-marked Oval Leaf Beetle" refers to its characteristic color pattern. As a member of the genus Paria, it belongs to a group of small, oval leaf beetles associated with foliage feeding.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-American-fauna foliage-beetle
Paria thoracica
Paria thoracica is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from Canada and the United States. The species was first described by Melsheimer in 1847. As a member of the genus Paria, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles that feed on plant foliage.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America herbivore
Paria virginiae
Paria virginiae is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Wilcox in 1957. The species is known to occur in North America. As a member of the genus Paria, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles whose members are typically associated with feeding on plant foliage. Very few specific details about its biology, host associations, or ecology have been documented in the available literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America
Paropsis atomaria
Dotted Paropsine Leaf Beetle
Paropsis atomaria is a leaf beetle in the subfamily Chrysomelinae, native to eastern Australia. The species name 'atomaria' refers to its speckled or freckled appearance. It has become an economically significant pest of Eucalyptus plantations in Queensland and New South Wales, and has been introduced to the west coast of North America. Females produce up to 600 eggs, deposited at leaf or twig tips. The species typically completes two generations per summer across most of its range.
pest Eucalyptus plantation Australia leaf-beetle defoliator biological-control parasitoid-host
Paropsisterna
leaf beetles, eucalyptus leaf beetles
Paropsisterna is a genus of chrysomelid leaf beetles containing over 120 species native to Australia and Papua New Guinea. Many species exhibit bright aposematic coloration and feed on Myrtaceae, particularly Eucalyptus. Several species have become invasive pests in New Zealand and Europe, causing significant defoliation of eucalypt plantations and ornamental trees. The genus was redefined in 2006 to include species formerly placed in Chrysophtharta and other genera.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Myrtaceae Eucalyptus forestry-pest invasive-species Australia Papua-New-Guinea New-Zealand Ireland aposematic-coloration biological-control
Paropsisterna m-fuscum
Eucalyptus Leaf Beetle
Paropsisterna m-fuscum is a small leaf beetle in the subfamily Chrysomelinae, native to Australia and now invasive in California, USA. It has become a significant forestry pest, particularly on Blue Gum eucalyptus. The species can reach high population densities and causes defoliation damage. Both adults and larvae feed on eucalyptus foliage.
invasive-species forestry-pest eucalyptus-feeder leaf-beetle Australian-native
Parorectis arenaria
Parorectis arenaria is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Riley in 2020. The specific epithet 'arenaria' (Latin for 'of sand') suggests an association with sandy habitats. As a recently described species, detailed biological information remains limited. It belongs to a genus within the diverse leaf beetle family, whose members are primarily herbivorous and often associated with specific host plants.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera sand-associated recently-described
Parorectis callosa
Parorectis callosa is a species of tortoise beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. First described by Boheman in 1854, this beetle is known from North America. Tortoise beetles in this genus are characterized by their distinctive domed, tortoise-like body shape and association with host plants.
tortoise-beetle Cassidinae North-American-fauna Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle
Pentispa distincta
Pentispa distincta is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. Adults measure 4.5-5.2 mm in length. The species occurs in Texas (USA), Mexico, and Guatemala. Adults have been collected on Eupatorium azureum, though the specific food plant remains unknown.
leaf-beetle Cassidinae Chalepini Neotropical Nearctic
Percolaspis
Percolaspis is a genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Eumolpinae. The genus is distributed across South America and Central America, with occasional records from southern Florida. Several species have significant agricultural importance, particularly as pests of cacao and field crops in Brazil.
agricultural-pest cacao-pest crop-pest leaf-beetle eumolpine
Phaedon
Phaedon is a genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Chrysomelinae. Species in this genus are associated with feeding on plant foliage, with some species documented as agricultural pests. The genus has been recorded across Europe and Asia, with at least one species, P. brassicae, known from China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Members are small to medium-sized beetles typical of the Chrysomelidae family.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Chrysomelinae herbivore agricultural-pest
Phaedon desotonis
desoto leaf beetle, coreopsis leaf beetle
Phaedon desotonis is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It has been observed in large populations on Coreopsis species in central Georgia, where it was previously considered rare. The species completes one generation per year, with peak larval abundance in April and greatest adult numbers in May.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Coreopsis-pest monophagous North-America horticultural-pest
Phaedon laevigatus
watercress leaf beetle
Phaedon laevigatus, commonly known as the watercress leaf beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species has a transcontinental distribution spanning Europe, Northern Asia (excluding China), and North America. It is associated with watercress and related plants in the family Brassicaceae. The specific epithet 'laevigatus' refers to the smooth or polished appearance of the elytra.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae watercress aquatic-habitat Brassicaceae-feeder Palaearctic Nearctic transcontinental-distribution
Phaedon viridis
watercress leaf beetle
Phaedon viridis, commonly known as the watercress leaf beetle, is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America and has been documented across multiple Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. The species is associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats where its host plants grow.
leaf-beetle watercress aquatic-insect Chrysomelidae North-America herbivore Brassicaceae-feeder riparian
Phratora
Phratora is a genus of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) distributed across the Northern Hemisphere in cool, moist regions where their host plants occur. The genus is synonymous with Phyllodecta. Species in this genus feed primarily on willows (Salix), poplars (Populus), or birch (Betula), with host plant associations showing evolutionary conservation—closely related beetle species tend to feed on closely related plant species. European species are difficult to distinguish by external morphology alone and require examination of female genitalia for reliable identification. Several species, particularly Phratora vulgatissima, are economically significant pests of short-rotation coppice willow plantations.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae willow-pest poplar-pest metallic-beetle short-rotation-coppice defoliator chemical-defense host-race Phyllodecta
Phratora americana
Phratora americana is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America, with records from Ontario, Quebec, and high elevations in the eastern United States. The species feeds on willow species (Salix) and exhibits variable coloration ranging from purple to blue or blue-green. Two subspecies are recognized: Phratora americana americana and Phratora americana canadensis.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae willow-feeder North-America metallic-coloration
Phratora hudsonia
birch leaf beetle
Phratora hudsonia is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the birch leaf beetle. It is found in North America, with documented populations in Ontario, Canada, as well as Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. The species feeds exclusively on birch leaves and has been the subject of biological study focusing on its seasonal occurrence, habits, and immature stages.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle birch Betula forest-insect North-America Canada Ontario herbivore folivore
Phyllecthris dorsalis
Leaf beetle
Phyllecthris dorsalis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It has been recorded from the eastern United States. The species is associated with Fabaceae host plants, specifically Amorpha and Desmodium species.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Fabaceae herbivore eastern-United-States
Phyllobrotica
skeletonizing leaf beetles, flea beetles
Phyllobrotica is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, containing at least 18 described species in North America. Members are small, often brightly colored beetles known as skeletonizing leaf beetles and flea beetles. Most North American species are extreme host specialists, feeding almost exclusively on plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae), particularly genera Scutellaria and Stachys. One species, P. physostegiae, has been documented on Physostegia, representing an unusual host transfer to a related mint family genus in dry prairie habitats.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae specialist-herbivore Lamiaceae Scutellaria Stachys Galerucinae North-America phytophagous rare-species host-specialist
Phyllobrotica costipennis
skeletonizing leaf beetle
Phyllobrotica costipennis is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species was described by George Henry Horn in 1893. It is recorded from North America, though specific details about its distribution, host plants, and biology remain poorly documented compared to congeners. Like other Phyllobrotica species, it likely exhibits strong host plant specialization.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle skeletonizing-leaf-beetle Phyllobrotica North-America rare poorly-known host-specialist Lamiaceae Scutellaria Stachys
Phyllobrotica decorata
Phyllobrotica decorata is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is distributed across North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba) and the United States. Like other members of the genus Phyllobrotica, it is believed to be a host specialist, though specific host plant associations for this species remain poorly documented compared to congeners.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Galerucinae skeletonizing-leaf-beetle North-America rare host-specialist Lamiaceae
Phyllobrotica lengi
Phyllobrotica lengi is an exceptionally rare leaf beetle endemic to eastern North America. First described by Blatchley in 1910, this species remained virtually unknown in Missouri until a small series was collected in 1988 on Scutellaria parvula. It is one of the rarest beetles in Missouri, with only four historical specimens known prior to the 1988 collection. Like other Phyllobrotica species, it is an extreme host specialist, feeding exclusively on skullcap plants (Scutellaria).
rare endemic host-specialist prairie leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Scutellaria Missouri
Phyllobrotica nigritarsis
Phyllobrotica nigritarsis is a rare leaf beetle (Chrysomelidae) endemic to the central United States. The species was historically known from only four specimens collected in Missouri during the late 1800s until a small series was collected in 1987. It is an extreme host specialist, feeding exclusively on Scutellaria parvula (small skullcap), a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). Like other Phyllobrotica species, it inhabits wet bottomland habitats rather than dry prairies.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae rare endemic host-specialist Scutellaria mint-family Missouri wetland bottomland
Phyllobrotica sequoiensis
Phyllobrotica sequoiensis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Blake in 1956. It is found in North America, though specific details about its distribution, habitat preferences, and biology remain poorly documented. The genus Phyllobrotica comprises highly host-specialized beetles, with most species feeding exclusively on plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae), particularly the genera Stachys and Scutellaria.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Phyllobrotica North-America host-specialist Lamiaceae data-deficient
Physonota alutacea
wild olive tortoise beetle
Physonota alutacea, commonly known as the wild olive tortoise beetle, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It belongs to the tortoise beetle subfamily Cassidinae, characterized by the distinctive domed body shape typical of this group. The species has been documented across a broad geographic range spanning North, Central, and South America. It is associated with wild olive (Cordia boissieri) and related host plants.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle Cassidinae wild-olive Cordia herbivore Neotropical Nearctic Boheman-1854 Chrysomelidae
Physonota calochroma
Physonota calochroma is a tortoise beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, originally described by Blake in 1965. The species is currently treated as a synonym of Eurypepla calochroma. As a member of the tortoise beetle subfamily Cassidinae, it possesses the characteristic domed carapace formed by modified elytra and pronotum. Larvae of the genus Physonota construct distinctive fecal umbrellas using exuviae and frass, held aloft by urogomphi structures.
tortoise-beetle Cassidinae fecal-umbrella larval-defense urogomphi synonym Eurypepla leaf-beetle North-America Caribbean
Physonota unipunctata
horsemint tortoise beetle, beebalm tortoise beetle, bergamot tortoise beetle, one-spotted tortoise beetle
Physonota unipunctata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the horsemint or beebalm tortoise beetle. The species is native to North America and has been documented from Canada to the United States. Historical taxonomic work from the late 19th century clarified species boundaries among related forms described by early American entomologists. The beetle shows seasonal phenology tied to host plant emergence, with adults appearing in June in the Montreal region.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle Monarda beebalm horsemint North-America
Plagiodera
willow leaf beetles
Plagiodera is a genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Chrysomelinae, containing approximately six recognized species distributed across the Holarctic region. The genus is best known for Plagiodera versicolora, commonly called the imported willow leaf beetle, which has been introduced to North America from Europe and is a significant pest of willow and poplar species. Members of this genus are specialized herbivores of Salicaceae, with well-documented chemical ecology and host-plant interactions.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae willow-pest salicaceae-specialist cycloalexy chemical-defense introduced-species diapause chemoreception skeletonization-feeding
Plagiodera arizonae
Plagiodera arizonae is a leaf beetle species in the tribe Chrysomelini, endemic to Arizona. The species exhibits distinctive coloration with black elytra contrasting against a red head and legs. It belongs to a genus of leaf beetles associated with willow and poplar hosts.
Arizona-endemic leaf-beetle Chrysomelini willow-feeder black-and-red-coloration
Plagiodera californica
California Willow Leaf Beetle
Plagiodera californica is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is known from North America and has been observed on willow hosts. The species is part of a genus containing other leaf beetles associated with Salicaceae.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae willow North-America
Plagiodera versicolora
Willow Leaf Beetle, Imported Willow Leaf Beetle
Plagiodera versicolora is a small leaf beetle in the subfamily Chrysomelinae, commonly known as the willow leaf beetle or imported willow leaf beetle. Native to Europe and the Mediterranean region, it has been introduced to North America and occurs in parts of Asia. The species is a specialist herbivore on Salicaceae, feeding on willow and poplar leaves throughout its life cycle. Adults overwinter in protected locations and become active in spring, with multiple generations developing through summer. The species has been extensively studied for its chemosensory biology, host plant interactions, and as a model for understanding insect-plant coevolution.
leaf-beetle willow-pest specialist-herbivore introduced-species chemoreception-model Salicaceae skeletonization cycloalexy diapause metallic-coloration
Plateumaris diversa
Plateumaris diversa is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Donaciinae. The species was described by C. Schaeffer in 1925. It is one of numerous Plateumaris species associated with wetland habitats, particularly those supporting emergent vegetation. Records indicate presence in central and eastern Canada, with observations from Manitoba, Ontario, and Québec.
Chrysomelidae Donaciinae leaf-beetle wetland peat-bog Canada Manitoba Ontario Québec aquatic-beetle emergent-vegetation
Plateumaris frosti
Frost's reed beetle
Plateumaris frosti is a species of aquatic leaf beetle in the subfamily Donaciinae, commonly known as Frost's reed beetle. It is distributed across North America with records from Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba) and the United States. Like other members of the genus Plateumaris, it is associated with wetland and riparian habitats. The species was described by C. Schaeffer in 1925.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle wetland-insect reed-beetle North-America
Plateumaris metallica
Metallic reed beetle
Plateumaris metallica is an aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, known by the common name Metallic reed beetle. It is native to North America, with confirmed records from Canada (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario) and the United States. As a member of the genus Plateumaris, it is associated with wetland habitats and aquatic vegetation.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae wetland-insect North-America Canada Plateumaris Coleoptera reed-beetle
Plateumaris robusta
Robust reed beetle
Plateumaris robusta is a species of aquatic leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Donaciinae. It is found in North America, with records from western Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. As a member of the reed beetle genus Plateumaris, it is associated with freshwater wetland habitats.
aquatic-beetle leaf-beetle reed-beetle wetland-insect North-American-fauna
Poecilocera
Poecilocera is a monotypic genus of aquatic leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, containing the single species Poecilocera harrisii. The genus was established by Schaeffer in 1919. The name has been used historically in both Coleoptera and Orthoptera, creating taxonomic confusion.
monotypic aquatic leaf-beetle taxonomic-confusion homonym
Poecilocera harrisii
Poecilocera harrisii is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1851. The genus Poecilocera is a small group within the leaf beetles, and this species represents one of the few documented members. Records indicate presence in North America, though detailed biological information remains limited.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America rarely-recorded data-deficient
Prasocuris phellandrii
Prasocuris phellandrii is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Linnaeus in 1758. It occurs across the Palearctic region, with documented presence in Europe, northern Asia, and North America. The species has been studied in Moravia, Czech Republic, indicating ongoing faunistic research interest.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Palearctic
Promecosoma arizonae
Promecosoma arizonae is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is distributed across southern Arizona, New Mexico, and Mexico. The species was described by Crotch in 1873. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with vegetation in arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and adjacent Mexico.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Southwestern-United-States Mexico
Promecosoma inflatum
Promecosoma inflatum is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cryptocephalinae, tribe Clytrini. It was described by Lefèvre in 1877. The species has a limited known distribution spanning the southwestern United States (Arizona) and Mexico. As a member of the Clytrini, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles often associated with specific host plants, though detailed biological information remains sparse in the published literature.
leaf-beetle Cryptocephalinae Clytrini Nearctic Neotropical
Pseudodibolia opima
Pseudodibolia opima is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1878. It belongs to a genus of small chrysomelid beetles native to North America. Very little specific information has been published regarding its biology, habitat preferences, or ecological role. The species is known from only a handful of documented observations, reflecting either genuine rarity or undercollection due to its small size and inconspicuous habits.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America data-deficient Coleoptera
Psylliodes credens
Psylliodes credens is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Fall in 1933. It is known from North America and belongs to a genus characterized by enlarged hind femora that enable jumping locomotion. Like other members of the genus, it likely exhibits the flea-like jumping behavior that gives the group its common name. The species has received limited study and detailed ecological information remains sparse.
flea-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America jumping-beetle Alticini Psylliodes Coleoptera insect beetle herbivore leaf-beetle
Psylliodes punctulata
Psylliodes punctulata is a species of flea beetle in the tribe Alticini, characterized by the enlarged hind femora that enable the jumping behavior typical of this group. The genus Psylliodes contains numerous species associated with brassicaceous host plants, though specific ecological details for P. punctulata remain poorly documented in available literature. Like other members of the genus, it likely exhibits the larval stem-mining habit and adult folivory that define Psylliodes ecology. The species name 'punctulata' refers to the punctate or dotted surface sculpturing typical of many chrysomelid beetles.
Chrysomelidae Alticini flea-beetle Psylliodes Coleoptera leaf-beetle jumping-beetle punctate-elytra brassicaceae-feeder stem-miner
Pteleon
Pteleon is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, established by Jacoby in 1888. The genus contains at least three described species. Like other Chrysomelidae, these beetles are associated with vegetation and are likely herbivorous, though specific details for this genus are limited in available literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Jacoby-1888
Pteleon brevicornis
Orange Stout-horned Luperine
Pteleon brevicornis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It occurs in arid and semi-arid regions of southwestern North America and northwestern Mexico. The species is known from scattered records across its range, with 132 observations documented on iNaturalist. It is commonly referred to as the Orange Stout-horned Luperine.
Chrysomelidae Coleoptera leaf-beetle Southwest-North-America Mexico United-States
Rhabdopterus bottimeri
Rhabdopterus bottimeri is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Eumolpinae. It was described by Barber in 1946 and is native to North and Middle America. The genus Rhabdopterus comprises small to medium-sized leaf beetles, many of which are associated with particular host plants. This species is poorly documented in the scientific literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae poorly-known
Rhabdopterus picipes
Cranberry Rootworm
Rhabdopterus picipes, commonly known as the cranberry rootworm, is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. This species is native to North America and is associated with cranberry cultivation, where its larval feeding on roots can cause economic damage. The specific epithet 'picipes' refers to the dark, pitch-black coloration of the legs. Despite its common name, detailed biological information remains sparse in published literature.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle cranberry-pest root-feeder North-America agricultural-pest
Rhabdopterus praetextus
Rhabdopterus praetextus is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1824. It is distributed across North America, with confirmed records in Canada (Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and Québec) and the United States. As a member of the leaf beetle family, it is presumed to be herbivorous, though specific host plants have not been documented in available sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-American-fauna
Saxinis omogera
Saxinis omogera is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Lacordaire in 1848. It belongs to the genus Saxinis, a group of case-bearing leaf beetles. The species occurs in both Central America and North America. Relatively few observations exist, with iNaturalist recording approximately 35 sightings. The taxonomic status is marked as doubtful in some databases, indicating potential need for further verification.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Central-America
Saxinis saucia bisignata
Saxinis saucia bisignata is a subspecies of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is distributed in North America and Middle America. As a member of the subfamily Criocerinae, it belongs to a group commonly known as asparagus beetles and their relatives. Very little specific information is documented about this particular subspecies.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle subspecies North-America Middle-America
Saxinis saucia immaculata
A subspecies of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Moldenke in 1970. As a member of the genus Saxinis, it belongs to a group of case-bearing leaf beetles. The subspecies epithet "immaculata" suggests a lack of spots or markings compared to the nominate form. Distribution records indicate presence in Middle America and North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Saxinis immaculata subspecies Moldenke-1970
Saxinis sonorensis
Saxinis sonorensis is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Jacoby in 1889. The species occurs in Central America and North America, with two recognized subspecies: S. s. scutellaris (Schaeffer, 1906) and S. s. sonorensis (Jacoby, 1889). As a member of the case-bearing leaf beetles, larvae construct protective cases from fecal material and plant debris.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Cryptocephalinae leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle North-America Central-America
Scelolyperus liriophilus
Scelolyperus liriophilus is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Wilcox in 1965. The species belongs to the tribe Luperini within the subfamily Galerucinae. It is known from North America, though detailed biological information remains limited.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle Chrysomelidae
Sennius abbreviatus
Short-spotted Sennius
Sennius abbreviatus is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Thomas Say in 1824. It is commonly known as the Short-spotted Sennius. The species occurs in North America and is documented through limited observational records.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America
Sennius discolor
Sennius discolor is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Horn in 1873. The species occurs in Central America and North America. Information regarding its biology, host plants, and specific habitat preferences remains limited in published literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Sennius Coleoptera
Sennius morosus
Sennius morosus is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in Central America and North America, with distribution records from Colombia, including the departments of Cundinamarca and Cauca. The species was described by Sharp in 1885. As a member of the genus Sennius, it belongs to a group of bruchine seed beetles associated with leguminous host plants.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Central-America North-America Colombia seed-beetle Bruchinae
Smaragdina militaris
Texas Military Leaf Beetle
Smaragdina militaris is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. Two subspecies are recognized: S. m. arizonica and the nominate S. m. militaris. As a member of the case-bearing leaf beetles, it likely exhibits the family's characteristic behavior of constructing protective cases from fecal material and shed exoskeletons.
leaf-beetle case-bearing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera
Sphaeroderma
Sphaeroderma is a genus of flea beetles (Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini) comprising approximately 250 species distributed across the Old World. Members of this genus are small leaf beetles characterized by enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping. The genus has been subject to taxonomic revision, with new species continuing to be described from montane regions.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle montane Old-World Chrysomelidae Alticini
Spintherophyta
Spintherophyta is a genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Eumolpinae. The genus exhibits high diversity in the Neotropics, with approximately 71 species recorded from Central and South America, while only four species occur in North America north of Mexico. Species are typically small, globular beetles, often found feeding on pollen in flowers.
leaf-beetle Eumolpinae pollen-feeder Neotropical Malvaceae
Spintherophyta arizonensis
Spintherophyta arizonensis is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Eumolpinae, described by Schultz in 1976. The genus Spintherophyta is most diverse in the Neotropics, with only four species occurring in North America north of Mexico. This species is one of the North American representatives of a predominantly Neotropical genus of globular, pollen-feeding leaf beetles.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae North-America Arizona pollen-feeder small-beetle flower-visitor
Spintherophyta exigua
A small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Schultz in 1976. As a member of the genus Spintherophyta, it belongs to a group with much higher diversity in the Neotropics compared to North America. The species epithet 'exigua' suggests small size, consistent with the genus's characteristic diminutive stature.
Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae leaf-beetle North-America Schultz-1976
Stator vachelliae
Stator vachelliae is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Bottimer in 1973. It is distributed across Central America, North America, and South America. The genus Stator is known to include seed beetles, though specific ecological details for this species remain limited.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae seed-beetle Stator
Stenispa collaris
Bicolored Smooth Hispine
Stenispa collaris is a small hispine beetle in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae. Adults are narrowly elongate and cylindrical with a distinctive color pattern: shining black body, bright red thorax, and cupreo-aeneous (coppery-bronze) elytra. The species occurs across the central and eastern United States, from New York to Texas. Despite being a member of the hispine group—many of which are specialized leaf miners—no host plant has been documented for this species.
leaf-beetle hispine Chrysomelidae Cassidinae North-America red-and-black-beetle metallic-elytra
Stenopodius
Stenopodius is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae, containing approximately seven described species. The genus was established by Horn in 1883 and is classified within the tribe Chalepini. Species in this genus are distributed in western and southwestern North America, including California, Texas, and insular regions. Members are hispine-type beetles, characterized by spiny or modified body forms associated with leaf-feeding habits.
hispine Chalepini Nearctic leaf-beetle
Stenopodius lateralis
Lateral Tortoise Beetle
Stenopodius lateralis is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, originally described as Brachycoryna lateralis by Schaeffer in 1933. It occurs across western North America from Canada through the United States to Mexico. Adults have been documented on Sphaeralcea species (globemallows), though whether these represent true host plants remains unclear.
leaf-beetle tortoise-beetle Chrysomelidae western-North-America
Stenopodius martini
Stenopodius martini is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Blaisdell in 1939. It belongs to the subfamily Cassidinae, a group commonly known as tortoise beetles or hispine beetles. The species is known from the southwestern United States. Its food plant remains unknown, though adults have been collected on Sphaeralcea species.
Chrysomelidae Cassidinae Chalepini leaf-beetle hispine-beetle Southwestern-United-States Arizona California New-Mexico Texas Sphaeralcea
Sumitrosis ancoroides
Anchor Hispine
Sumitrosis ancoroides is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. Adults measure 2.9–3.7 mm and display distinctive black markings on the pronotum and elytra, including a characteristic anchor-shaped spot. The species feeds on leguminous plants including wild beans and soybean. It occurs across a broad range in North America from Canada to the southern United States.
leaf-beetle hispine Fabaceae-feeder North-America agricultural-pest-potential
Sumitrosis inaequalis
Sumitrosis inaequalis is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae. Adults measure 3.4–4.2 mm and exhibit highly variable coloration, ranging from pale yellow with faint markings to predominantly black with yellow spots. The species is distributed across Central America and much of North America, with records from Canada and the United States. It is a leaf miner, feeding internally on host plant foliage.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cassidinae leaf-miner herbivore North-America Central-America variable-coloration Asteraceae-host-plants Ambrosia-host-plants
Sumitrosis pallescens
Sumitrosis pallescens is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, measuring 3.1-3.5 mm as adults. The species is characterized by pale yellow coloration on the pronotum and elytra, with dark spots near the wing tips. It is known to feed on Chamaecrista species and has a broad distribution across the southeastern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Cassidinae pale-yellow Chamaecrista southeastern-US Central-America Mexico small-beetle
Syneta
Syneta is a genus of leaf beetles comprising approximately 11 described species. It is the sole genus in the subfamily Synetinae, a small lineage within the family Chrysomelidae. The genus has an exclusively Holarctic distribution, occurring in northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. The type species, Syneta betulae, was described by Fabricius in 1792.
leaf-beetle Holarctic boreal Chrysomelidae
Syneta extorris
Syneta extorris is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Brown in 1940. The species is endemic to eastern North America and comprises two recognized subspecies with distinct geographic distributions and host associations. The nominate subspecies occurs in the southern Appalachian Mountains, while S. e. borealis ranges from Newfoundland to Ontario and New York.
leaf-beetle conifer-specialist subspecies-dimorphism eastern-North-America spruce-fir-forest
Syneta hamata
Syneta hamata is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It was described by Horn in 1893. The species occurs in western North America, with records from western Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae western-North-America Canadian-fauna
Syneta simplex
Syneta simplex is a leaf beetle species native to North America. The species comprises two recognized subspecies with distinct elevational and host plant preferences. The nominate subspecies S. s. simplex occurs at lower elevations and feeds on Garry oak (Quercus garryana), while S. s. subalpina inhabits subalpine zones near timberline in Washington and British Columbia and feeds on alpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa). The species belongs to the family Chrysomelidae, a diverse group of herbivorous beetles commonly known as leaf beetles.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America subalpine oak fir host-specific elevational-variation
Synetinae
Synetinae is a small subfamily of leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) containing two genera, Syneta and Thricolema, with approximately 12 described species. The group is restricted to the Holarctic region, with most species occurring in North America and a smaller number in Europe and Asia. The taxonomic status of Synetinae has been disputed: historically treated as a separate subfamily, it was proposed as tribe Synetini within Eumolpinae based on larval similarities, though this placement remains contested due to conflicting morphological evidence.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Holarctic temperate-forest taxonomic-controversy small-subfamily
Synetocephalus
Synetocephalus is a genus of skeletonizing leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, containing approximately 10 described species. The genus was established by Fall in 1910 and is restricted to North America. Species in this genus are small leaf-feeding beetles that skeletonize plant foliage. One species, Synetocephalus penrosei, was described in 2012 from California and named in honor of the coleopterist Richard L. Penrose.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle Chrysomelidae Galerucinae Luperini North-America western-North-America California-endemic-species Richard-L.-Penrose-namesake
Synetocephalus vandykei
Synetocephalus vandykei is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Blake in 1942. The species is known from North America. As a member of the tribe Alticini (flea beetles), it likely possesses enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping, a characteristic of this group.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae Galerucinae Alticini leaf-beetle flea-beetle skeletonizing-beetle North-America Blake-1942
Systena bitaeniata
Systena bitaeniata is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to North America. The genus Systena includes small leaf beetles commonly associated with various host plants. This species is part of a diverse group of chrysomelid beetles that feed on plant foliage.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae flea-beetle leaf-beetle North-America herbivore
Systena collaris
Systena collaris is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Crotch in 1873. The genus Systena contains multiple species of small leaf beetles, several of which are associated with sunflower and other Asteraceae hosts. The specific epithet 'collaris' refers to a collar-like marking or structure. As a member of the flea beetle group, this species likely possesses the enlarged hind femora characteristic of the tribe Alticini, enabling jumping behavior.
flea-beetle Chrysomelidae Coleoptera leaf-beetle Systena North-America
Systena corni
Dogwood Systena
Systena corni, commonly known as the dogwood systena, is a flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. The species is found in North America. As a member of the genus Systena, it belongs to a group of small leaf beetles often associated with host plants. Specific ecological details about this species remain limited in published literature.
Chrysomelidae Coleoptera flea-beetle North-America leaf-beetle
Systena elongata
elongate flea beetle, Dark-necked Systena
Systena elongata is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America, with confirmed records from Manitoba, Canada. The species is also known by the common name "Dark-necked Systena." As a member of the flea beetle tribe Alticini, it possesses the enlarged hind femora characteristic of this group, enabling jumping locomotion.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera
Systena laevis
Systena laevis is a species of flea beetle (family Chrysomelidae) native to North America. Flea beetles in the genus Systena are small leaf beetles characterized by their enlarged hind femora that enable jumping behavior. The species was described by Blake in 1935. Specific ecological details for S. laevis remain poorly documented in the scientific literature.
flea-beetle leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Coleoptera
Systena pallicornis
Systena pallicornis is a species of flea beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America. As a member of the genus Systena, it belongs to a group of small leaf beetles commonly known as flea beetles due to their enlarged hind femora that enable jumping. The species was described by Schaeffer in 1906.
Chrysomelidae flea-beetle North-America Coleoptera leaf-beetle
Thricolema
Thricolema is a monotypic genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Synetinae, containing only Thricolema anomala. Adults are associated with Calocedrus decurrens (incense-cedar) and have been recorded from California and Oregon. The genus is distinguished from the similar Syneta by tarsal claw morphology in females.
leaf-beetle monotypic-genus Synetinae Californian-fauna Oregon-fauna conifer-associated
Timarcha
bloody-nosed beetles
Timarcha is a genus of flightless leaf beetles comprising over 100 species across three subgenera, with a disjunct distribution spanning the Mediterranean region and western North America. The genus exhibits several unusual traits for Chrysomelidae, including complete apterism (winglessness), fused elytra, and archaic genital morphology. All species are uniformly black and herbivorous, with host plant associations concentrated in Rubiaceae and Plumbaginaceae. The most familiar species is T. tenebricosa, commonly known as the bloody-nosed beetle, named for its defensive reflex bleeding behavior.
apterous flightless reflex-bleeding Mediterranean Holarctic-disjunction herbivory Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle ancient-lineage Rubiaceae Plumbaginaceae defense-behavior thanatosis monovoltine diapause parasite-mediated-selection mate-choice cryptic-species-complex phylogeography molecular-systematics
Timarcha intricata
Intricate Leaf Beetle
Timarcha intricata is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Haldeman in 1853. It is found in North America, with distribution records from Canada (Alberta and British Columbia) and the United States. The species is commonly known as the Intricate Leaf Beetle. Like other members of the genus Timarcha, it belongs to a group of leaf beetles that are primarily associated with feeding on plant foliage.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America Canada Alberta British-Columbia Coleoptera
Triarius nigroflavus
Triarius nigroflavus is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described in 2001. The species belongs to a genus known for feeding on morning glories and related plants in the family Convolvulaceae. It is recorded from North America.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle Chrysomelidae Galerucinae Luperini
Triarius trivittatus
Skeletonizing Leaf Beetle
Triarius trivittatus is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is native to North America. The species is characterized by its feeding behavior that produces skeletonized damage on host plant leaves. Very little detailed ecological or behavioral information has been published for this specific species.
Coleoptera Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle North-America Triarius data-deficient
Tricholochmaea decora
Pacific willow leaf beetle, gray willow leaf beetle
Tricholochmaea decora is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is commonly known as the Pacific willow leaf beetle or gray willow leaf beetle. The species is native to North America and belongs to a genus of leaf-feeding beetles. Two subspecies are recognized: T. d. decora and T. d. carbo.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae skeletonizing willow North-America
Tricholochmaea vaccinii
blueberry leaf beetle
Tricholochmaea vaccinii, commonly known as the blueberry leaf beetle, is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It feeds on blueberry plants (Vaccinium species), causing characteristic skeletonized damage to leaves. The species is native to North America and has been documented in eastern Canadian provinces including New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Ontario.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle skeletonizing Vaccinium blueberry-pest North-America eastern-Canada
Trirhabda attenuata
skeletonizing leaf beetle
Trirhabda attenuata is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, distributed across North America. The species is one of several in the genus Trirhabda, which are known for their specialized feeding on particular host plants. Like congeners, it exhibits the characteristic skeletonizing feeding pattern of removing leaf tissue between veins. The species was described by Thomas Say in 1824.
skeletonizing-leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Galerucinae North-America herbivore leaf-beetle Coleoptera Say-1824 Trirhabda
Trirhabda bacharidis (Weber, 1801)
groundselbush beetle, groundsel bush leaf beetle
Trirhabda bacharidis is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is highly specialized to feed on Baccharis species (Asteraceae), with both adults and larvae consuming host plant foliage. The species has been documented in Australia, North America, and Southern Asia, and has been studied for its biological control potential.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle specialist-herbivore biological-control
Trirhabda convergens
Trirhabda convergens is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario) and the United States. The species belongs to a genus known for feeding on leaves in a skeletonizing pattern, consuming tissue between leaf veins while leaving the veins intact.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America herbivore
Trirhabda diducta
skeletonizing leaf beetle
Trirhabda diducta is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by George Henry Horn in 1893. The genus Trirhabda comprises approximately 26 North American species, most of which are associated with goldenrod (Solidago) and related Asteraceae hosts. Like congeners, T. diducta is expected to be a specialist herbivore with larvae that mine leaves and adults that skeletonize foliage. The species occurs across North America, though specific host associations and detailed biology remain poorly documented compared to better-studied relatives such as T. canadensis and T. virgata.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Galerucinae Trirhabda skeletonizing-beetle North-America Asteraceae herbivore specialist
Trirhabda eriodictyonis
yerba santa beetle
Trirhabda eriodictyonis is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is commonly known as the yerba santa beetle, reflecting its association with its host plant. The species is found in North America.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle North-America yerba-santa
Trirhabda flavolimbata
Coyote Brush Leaf Beetle
Trirhabda flavolimbata, commonly called the coyote brush leaf beetle, is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is restricted to California where it inhabits coastal scrublands and chaparral. Both larvae and adults are metallic green and sequester toxins from their host plants, rendering them unpalatable to predators. The species has a single annual brood with a distinctive life cycle involving extended egg diapause.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae California-endemic coastal-scrub chaparral coyote-brush Baccharis aposematic-coloration chemical-defense univoltine skeletonizing-feeder
Trirhabda geminata
Encelia Leaf Beetle
Trirhabda geminata is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the Encelia leaf beetle. It is a specialist herbivore strongly associated with brittlebush (Encelia farinosa) and related Encelia species in the Asteraceae. The beetle is univoltine, with adults emerging in spring to feed, mate, and oviposit on host foliage. Larvae feed gregariously on leaves, passing through three instars before pupating in soil. The species is notable for accumulating hydroxylated anthraquinones (chrysophanol and chrysazin) through apparent de novo biosynthesis, as these compounds are absent from its host plant and retained rather than excreted.
specialist-herbivore desert-beetle Encelia brittlebush anthraquinone univoltine gregarious-larvae Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle
Trirhabda manisi
Trirhabda manisi is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Hogue in 1971. Like other members of the genus Trirhabda, it is expected to feed on leaves of specific host plants, skeletonizing the tissue between the veins. The species is known from North America, though specific details about its biology and distribution remain poorly documented. It is one of approximately 30 species in the genus Trirhabda, most of which are associated with Asteraceae host plants.
Chrysomelidae Galerucinae leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle North-America poorly-known-species Hogue-1971 Trirhabda
Trirhabda nitidicollis
Rabbitbrush Beetle, Rabbitbrush Leaf Beetle
Trirhabda nitidicollis is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in western North America, where adults feed on rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa). The species is commonly encountered in pinyon-juniper woodland habitats during summer months.
leaf-beetle skeletonizing-beetle rabbitbrush Chrysomelidae Trirhabda western-North-America herbivore Ericameria-nauseosa
Trirhabda pilosa
Trirhabda pilosa is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to North America. The species is a specialist herbivore of sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) and has been extensively used in ecological research as a model organism to study plant-to-plant communication and induced plant resistance. Larvae demonstrate consistent behavioral avoidance of leaves exposed to damage cues, making them valuable for rapid bioassays of plant defensive responses.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae sagebrush-specialist herbivore induced-resistance plant-plant-communication bioassay model-organism Artemisia North-America
Trirhabda pubicollis
Trirhabda pubicollis is a skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Blake in 1951. The species belongs to a genus known for feeding on Asteraceae host plants. It occurs in Central America and North America, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in the available literature.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae skeletonizing-beetle Asteraceae-feeder North-America Central-America
Trirhabda schwarzi
Trirhabda schwarzi is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America. The species belongs to a genus whose members are known for feeding on goldenrods (Solidago spp.) and related Asteraceae, though specific host associations for T. schwarzi have not been documented.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae skeletonizing-leaf-beetle North-America
Trirhabda sericotrachyla
California sagebrush leaf beetle
Trirhabda sericotrachyla is a species of skeletonizing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Blake in 1931. It is known from western North America, with records from British Columbia and California. The species is associated with California sagebrush (Artemisia californica) as a host plant, reflecting the genus-wide pattern of specialization on Asteraceae. Like other Trirhabda species, adults feed externally on leaves while larvae skeletonize foliage between the veins.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae specialist-herbivore Asteraceae California-sagebrush skeletonizing-feeder coastal-scrub chaparral
Trirhabda virgata
goldenrod beetle, goldenrod leaf beetle
Trirhabda virgata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the goldenrod beetle. It is native to North America and specializes on goldenrod plants (Solidago spp.) in the Asteraceae family. The species has been extensively studied for its host plant relationships, density-dependent dispersal behavior, and potential role as a keystone herbivore in old field ecosystems. Adults and larvae feed on goldenrod foliage, with larvae causing significant defoliation during outbreak conditions.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae goldenrod Solidago herbivory dispersal keystone-species old-field-ecology density-dependent-behavior host-specialization Asteraceae
Tymnes oregonensis
Oregon Leaf Beetle
Tymnes oregonensis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, tribe Alticini. It is native to western North America. The species was originally described by Crotch in 1873 and has been historically treated under the genus Phyllotreta as a synonym. Available records indicate presence in the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Manitoba, with broader distribution across North America. Like other members of the Alticini, it possesses enlarged hind femora adapted for jumping.
leaf-beetle flea-beetle Alticini Chrysomelidae Coleoptera North-America western-North-America Oregon Alberta Manitoba rarely-collected taxonomic-revision jumping-beetle
Tymnes tricolor
Tymnes tricolor is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Fabricius in 1792. The species is known from North America. It belongs to the genus Tymnes, which comprises leaf beetles. Beyond these basic taxonomic details, specific information about its biology, ecology, and appearance remains limited in available sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae North-America
Typophorini
Typophorini is a tribe of leaf beetles in the subfamily Eumolpinae, containing approximately 100 genera distributed worldwide. Members are primarily characterized by distinctive notches on the tibiae of the middle and hind legs, often referred to as antenna cleaners. The tribe also exhibits a subglabrous body surface and bifid pretarsal claws. Taxonomic organization follows five informal sections: Callisinites, Metachromites, Nodostomites, Pagriites, and Typophorites.
leaf-beetle Eumolpinae antenna-cleaners agricultural-pest worldwide-distribution
Typophorus nigritus
Sweet Potato Leaf Beetle
Typophorus nigritus is a leaf beetle in the subfamily Eumolpinae with a broad distribution spanning North, Central, and South America. Two subspecies, T. n. nitidulus and T. n. viridicyaneus, are documented agricultural pests of sweet potatoes. The species comprises 13 recognized subspecies with varying geographic ranges. It is commonly referred to as the Sweet Potato Leaf Beetle in agricultural contexts.
leaf-beetle Eumolpinae sweet-potato-pest agricultural-pest polytypic-species
Urodera
Urodera is a genus of case-bearing leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, established by Lacordaire in 1848. The genus comprises nine described species distributed in the Americas, with most species described by Monros and others by Lacordaire, Jacoby, and Schaeffer. These beetles are characterized by their association with leaf case-bearing behavior, a trait shared with other members of their subfamily.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle case-bearing Coleoptera
Xanthonia angulata
Xanthonia angulata is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, measuring 3.5–4 mm in length with uniformly medium brown elytra. The species was described by Staines and Weisman in 2001. Its specific epithet derives from the Latin angulatus, meaning 'with angles'. The beetle occurs in eastern and central North America and has been documented in association with oak trees (Quercus spp.).
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae oak-associated North-America
Xanthonia decemnotata
ten-spotted leaf beetle
Xanthonia decemnotata is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the ten-spotted leaf beetle. It is native to eastern North America, with a range extending from the Canadian prairies to the northeastern United States. The species is characterized by its reddish-brown elytra marked with ten black spots. It is one of several species in the genus Xanthonia, which are generally associated with leaf-feeding habits on various plants.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae eastern-North-America small-beetle spotted-elytra
Xanthonia dentata
Xanthonia dentata is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Staines and Weisman in 2002. The species is known from the southwestern United States, where it has been collected in association with oak trees. Adults measure 2.8–3.4 mm in length and display distinctive coloration useful for identification.
leaf-beetle oak-associated southwestern-US Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae small-beetle elytral-spots
Xanthonia furcata
Xanthonia furcata is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Staines & Weisman in 2001. The species is found in the southern and eastern United States, with documented records from Illinois, Missouri, Texas, and Oklahoma. It is associated with wild cherry (Prunus spp.) and oaks (Quercus spp.) as host plants. The specific epithet 'furcata' derives from Latin 'furca,' meaning 'fork,' though the morphological feature this refers to is not explicitly described in available sources.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Xanthonia United-States oak-associated cherry-associated small-beetle
Xanthonia hirsuta
Small Juniper Xanthonian
Xanthonia hirsuta is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described in 2019. It belongs to the genus Xanthonia, which comprises small, often cryptically colored beetles associated with coniferous vegetation. The species epithet 'hirsuta' refers to the hairy or setose body surface. As a member of the Eumolpinae subfamily, it is likely associated with feeding on gymnosperm foliage, though specific host records remain limited.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae Xanthoniini conifer-associated recently-described
Xanthonia marquai
Davis Mountains Juniper Xanthonian
Xanthonia marquai is a recently described species of leaf beetle (Chrysomelidae) endemic to the Davis Mountains in western Texas. The species was described in 2019 and is known from a single iNaturalist observation. It is associated with juniper vegetation in montane habitats.
endemic Texas Davis-Mountains leaf-beetle 2019-description data-deficient
Xanthonia nitida
Black Texas Xanthonian
Xanthonia nitida is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described in 2019. It is known from Texas and is recognized by its dark coloration. As a member of the genus Xanthonia, it belongs to a group of small leaf beetles that are often associated with vegetation in various habitats. The species is relatively recently described and appears to be uncommon, with limited observation records.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Texas-endemic recently-described Xanthonia
Xanthonia parva
Lacey Oak Xanthonia
Xanthonia parva is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described in 2019 from material collected in Texas. It is one of the smallest species in the genus Xanthonia and is associated with Quercus laceyi (Lacey oak). The species was distinguished from congeners based on morphological characters and represents part of ongoing taxonomic revision of North American Eumolpinae.
Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae Xanthoniini leaf-beetle oak-associated Texas-endemic 2019-description Quercus-laceyi Lacey-oak
Xanthonia picturata
Common Texas Oak Xanthonia
Xanthonia picturata is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described in 2019 from Texas. It is one of several recently described species in the genus Xanthonia, a group of small leaf beetles associated with oak trees. The species is relatively well-documented through citizen science observations, with over 100 records on iNaturalist. Its common name reflects its apparent association with oak habitats in Texas.
leaf-beetle oak-associated Texas-endemic recently-described Chrysomelidae Xanthonia Coleoptera
Xanthonia texana
Xanthonia texana is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Eumolpinae. It was described in 2019 from Texas, representing a relatively recent addition to the genus Xanthonia. The genus comprises small leaf beetles, many of which are associated with specific host plants. As a recently described species, detailed natural history information remains limited.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Eumolpinae recently-described Texas-endemic Coleoptera Xanthonia 2019-description
Xanthonia vagans
Large Juniper Xanthonian
Xanthonia vagans is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is associated with juniper host plants and has a relatively large body size compared to congeners. The species occurs in arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae juniper-associate Nearctic Xanthonia
Xenochalepus ater
Xenochalepus ater is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in Central America and North America, with records from the United States (Arizona, Texas) and Mexico (Guerrero, Jalisco, Morelos). The species has been recorded feeding on cultivated legumes including soybean (Glycine max) and common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). Adults have also been collected on Robinia species, Rhamnus betulifolia, and Platanus wrightii.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Xenochalepus North-America Central-America agricultural-pest legume-feeder
Yingabruxia apicalis
Yingabruxia apicalis is a species of flea beetle (Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini) in the genus Yingabruxia. The genus Yingabruxia was established relatively recently in leaf beetle systematics. As a member of the Alticini, this species possesses the enlarged hind femora characteristic of flea beetles that enable jumping locomotion. No specific ecological or biological studies have been published on this species.
Chrysomelidae Galerucinae Alticini flea-beetle leaf-beetle Yingabruxia Coleoptera Polyphaga Cucujiformia
Zabrotes chavesi
Zabrotes chavesi is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Kingsolver in 1980. The species was named in honor of Franklin Chaves, director of Santa Rosa National Park in Costa Rica, which serves as its type locality. It is distributed across the Americas from northern South America through Central America to the southwestern United States.
leaf-beetle seed-predator Senna Fabaceae Chrysomelidae Central-America Neotropical
Zeugophora
Zeugophora is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Megalopodidae, established by Kunze in 1818. The genus contains multiple species distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, with particularly well-documented diversity in China. Species are phytophagous, with larvae and adults feeding on foliage of specific host plant families. The genus is divided into subgenera based on morphological traits and host associations: subgenus Zeugophora primarily associated with Salicaceae, and subgenus Pedrillia with Celastraceae, Symplocaceae, and Lamiaceae. Male genitalia morphology serves as a critical diagnostic tool for species identification.
phytophagous leaf-beetle host-specific male-genitalia-diagnostic Salicaceae Celastraceae China-fauna Palearctic
Zeugophora abnormis
Zeugophora abnormis is a species of leaf beetle in the family Megalopodidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1850. It is native to North America, with records from western Canada (Alberta, British Columbia) and the United States. The genus Zeugophora belongs to the small family Megalopodidae, which is closely related to Chrysomelidae (leaf beetles) and contains species with larvae that bore into plant stems or feed externally on foliage.
leaf-beetle Megalopodidae North-American-fauna Coleoptera western-Canada
Zeugophora varians
Zeugophora varians is a species of megalopodid leaf beetle in the family Megalopodidae. It was described by Crotch in 1873. The species is found in North America, with records from Canada including Alberta and British Columbia. Megalopodid beetles are a relatively small family of leaf-feeding beetles closely related to Chrysomelidae.
beetle leaf-beetle Coleoptera North-America Megalopodidae
Zygogramma
Zygogramma is a large genus of leaf beetles in the subfamily Chrysomelinae, comprising approximately 100 species with 13 species occurring north of Mexico. The genus is characterized by its association with plants in the family Asteraceae, particularly ragweeds (Ambrosia) and related genera. Several species, especially Z. bicolorata, have been extensively studied and deployed as biological control agents against invasive weeds. The genus is distinguished from related genera such as Calligrapha by fused tarsal claws.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae biological-control Parthenium sexual-conflict mate-guarding invasive-species-management Asteraceae-herbivore
Zygogramma conjuncta
Zygogramma conjuncta is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Rogers in 1856. It belongs to a genus of leaf-feeding beetles distributed across the Americas, with several species known for their association with specific host plants. The species has been recorded from North America and Middle America, though its taxonomic status is marked as doubtful in some databases. Like other members of Zygogramma, it likely exhibits the typical dome-like body shape and patterned elytra characteristic of the genus.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Chrysomelinae Americas
Zygogramma conjuncta conjuncta
Zygogramma conjuncta conjuncta is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Chrysomelinae. The genus Zygogramma is distributed across North and South America, with several species recognized as specialist feeders on plants in the family Asteraceae. Members of this genus are characterized by fused tarsal claws, distinguishing them from related genera such as Calligrapha. The subspecies is found in Middle and North America, though specific ecological details for this subspecies are not well documented in available sources.
Chrysomelidae Chrysomelinae leaf-beetle subspecies North-America Middle-America fused-tarsal-claws Asteraceae-feeders
Zygogramma conjuncta pallida
Zygogramma conjuncta pallida is a subspecies of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to North and Middle America. As a member of the subtribe Doryphorina, it shares morphological traits with other Zygogramma species, including fused tarsal claws that distinguish the genus from related genera such as Calligrapha. The species Zygogramma conjuncta has been associated with feeding on plants in the family Malvaceae. The subspecies epithet "pallida" suggests a lighter coloration compared to the nominate form.
leaf-beetle Chrysomelidae Doryphorina North-America Middle-America
Zygogramma heterothecae
Zygogramma heterothecae is a leaf beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by Linell in 1896. It belongs to a genus of leaf-feeding beetles primarily found in the Americas. Members of the genus Zygogramma are typically associated with specific host plants and exhibit characteristic elytral patterns with stripes or spots. The genus is taxonomically distinguished from related genera such as Calligrapha by fused tarsal claws.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle Coleoptera Doryphorina North-America
Zygogramma signatipennis
Zygogramma signatipennis is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae found in Mexico. The species has been documented feeding on acahual plants (Tithonia tubaeformis, Asteraceae), causing moderate to severe defoliation damage specifically to this host. Research suggests it shows greater feeding preference for plants in the vegetative stage and has been proposed as a potential biological control agent for management of T. tubaeformis as a weed. The species was originally described by Stål in 1859.
Chrysomelidae leaf-beetle biological-control Tithonia Mexico defoliator Asteraceae weed-management