Altica torquata
This record describes Altica torquata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
usually polychrome - elytral margins, and pronotum behind transverse furrow (name!) coloured in a different tone than elytral disc. Monochrome individuals identified by dissection only. the name 'Steel-blue Grapevine Flea Beetle' is misleading as this sp. has nothing to do with grape vines. ( 5 ) ( 4 )
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
sw US (s.CA to w.TX, CO-s.NV) / Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
asso. w/ Oenothera spp. ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Altica torquata J.L. LeConte 1858
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Altica torquata. 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 torquata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Boris Bueche
Frequently Asked Questions About Altica torquata
What is Altica torquata?
Altica torquata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Altica torquata?
usually polychrome - elytral margins, and pronotum behind transverse furrow (name!) coloured in a different tone than elytral disc. Monochrome individuals identified by dissection only.
Where is Altica torquata found?
Range: sw US (s.CA to w.TX, CO-s.NV) / Mex. - Map
What is the life cycle of a Altica torquata?
asso. w/ Oenothera spp. ( 4 )