Altica subplicata
This record describes Altica subplicata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
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
widely dist. (CA-MS-QC-BC) - , but rare along the Atlantic seaboard
Diet and Behavior
Diet: species of Salix (Salicaceae), including S. bebbiana, S. cordata , and S. exigua
Life History
"can occur in huge numbers, essentially turning entire willow branches metallic blue" (E.G.Riley, 2022, pers. comm. to MAQ)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Altica subplicata LeConte, 1859
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Altica subplicata. 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 subplicata
Where is Altica subplicata found?
Range: widely dist. (CA-MS-QC-BC) - , but rare along the Atlantic seaboard
What does Altica subplicata eat?
The diet of the Altica subplicata includes species of Salix (Salicaceae), including S. bebbiana, S. cordata , and S. exigua.
What is the life cycle of a Altica subplicata?
can occur in huge numbers, essentially turning entire willow branches metallic blue (E.G.Riley, 2022, pers. comm. to MAQ)