Alder Leaf Beetle
Agelastica alni
This record describes Agelastica alni (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Agelastica alni is a distinctive, dark metallic blue coloured species measuring around 7mm in length. It feeds mainly on Alder but is occasionally found on other deciduous trees such as Beech, Hazel and Hornbeam. The black larvae can be found in July and August when they can cause significant leaf damage. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. It overwinters as adults which emerge in the spring, sometimes in large numbers. Once a rare beetle which was previously believed to be extinct in the UK. However, there have been an increasing number of recent records and the true status of Agelastica alni, is currently unknown - it has RDB K (Insufficiently known) status.
Wikipedia reference for Agelastica alni: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agelastica_alni.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Agelastica
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Mainly found on Alder.
Seasonal Activity
Late spring to autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It overwinters as adults which emerge in the spring, sometimes in large numbers.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Once a rare beetle which was previously believed to be extinct in the UK. However, there have been an increasing number of recent records and the true status of Agelastica alni, is currently unknown - it has RDB K (Insufficiently known) status.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Agelastica alni. 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 Alder Leaf Beetle (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Alder Leaf Beetle
What is Alder Leaf Beetle?
Alder Leaf Beetle (Agelastica alni) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Alder Leaf Beetle found?
Habitat: Mainly found on Alder.
When is Alder Leaf Beetle active?
Alder Leaf Beetle: seasonal activity - Late spring to autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Alder Leaf Beetle?
It overwinters as adults which emerge in the spring, sometimes in large numbers.