Alligatorweed Flea Beetle
Agasicles hygrophila
This record describes Agasicles hygrophila (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
extremely effective as biocontrol agent in coastal se. US first released in the US: 1964, CA & SC; later, in several other states (TN-NC-FL-TX) (Buckingham, 2002)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Agasicles
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in wet places near its host plant
Geographic Range
established in se US (e.TX-FL-NC) - Map , (also introduced into CA but failed to establish ) Native to so. Brazil & n. Argentina
Seasonal Activity
In se. US, mostly Mar-Dec with two population peaks (spring and fall)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Only known host: the invasive alligatorweed ( Alternanthera philoxeroides , Amaranthaceae)
Life History
Adults lay eggs on the underside of host leaves; larvae feed on the leaves, then pupate inside the hollow stems. Can complete cycle in less than a month.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Agasicles hygrophila Selman & Vogt 1971
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Agasicles hygrophila. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Alligatorweed Flea Beetle (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Chuck Entz; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Alligatorweed Flea Beetle
What is Alligatorweed Flea Beetle?
Alligatorweed Flea Beetle (Agasicles hygrophila) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Alligatorweed Flea Beetle?
5-7 mm
Where is Alligatorweed Flea Beetle found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Found in wet places near its host plant |
| Range | established in se US (e.TX-FL-NC) - Map , (also introduced into CA but failed to establish ) Native to so. Brazil & n. Argentina |
What does Alligatorweed Flea Beetle eat?
The diet of the Alligatorweed Flea Beetle includes Only known host: the invasive alligatorweed ( Alternanthera philoxeroides , Amaranthaceae).
When is Alligatorweed Flea Beetle active?
Alligatorweed Flea Beetle: seasonal activity - In se. US, mostly Mar-Dec with two population peaks (spring and fall).
What is the life cycle of a Alligatorweed Flea Beetle?
Adults lay eggs on the underside of host leaves; larvae feed on the leaves, then pupate inside the hollow stems. Can complete cycle in less than a month.