Altica prasina
This record describes Altica prasina (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
elytra with lateral plica (as member of bimarginata-group), and long intrahumeral depression (as A. ambiens ); colour frequently green (name),but variable.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Altica
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
BC - CA; ID, UT (Blake, 1936, for the nominate ssp.)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: willows (ssp. prasina ), poplars (ssp. populi Brown, 1938)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Altica prasina (LeConte, 1857)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Altica prasina. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Altica prasina
What is Altica prasina?
Altica prasina is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Altica prasina?
elytra with lateral plica (as member of bimarginata-group), and long intrahumeral depression (as A. ambiens ); colour frequently green (name),but variable.
Where is Altica prasina found?
Range: BC - CA; ID, UT (Blake, 1936, for the nominate ssp.)
What does Altica prasina eat?
The diet of the Altica prasina includes willows (ssp. prasina ), poplars (ssp. populi Brown, 1938).