Altica lythri
This record describes Altica lythri (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This flea beetle is almost identical to other Altica species and they can only be distinguished by dissection, preferably from a male. Like other 'flea' beetles it has powerful back legs enabling it to jump. There are seven native Altica species and none can be reliably identified from physical characters. This species will not be accepted without 'gen det' - dissection of the male genitalia. Altica lythri feeds on the Great Willowherb ( Epilobium hirsutum ).
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Altica
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Altica lythri
Seasonal Activity
Usually seen in spring and summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Very common in southern Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Altica lythri. 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 Altica lythri (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Altica lythri
What is Altica lythri?
Altica lythri is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Altica lythri found?
Habitat: Altica lythri
When is Altica lythri active?
Altica lythri: seasonal activity - Usually seen in spring and summer..