Aphthona czwalinai
This record describes Aphthona czwalinai (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Shiny metallic black. Adults indistinguishable from A. lacertosa common in ND ( 3 ) Introduced to control Euphorbia (leafy spurge) in 1987
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Aphthona
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
native to w. Palaearctic (C. Europe to C. Asia)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: recorded host: Euphorbia esula
Life History
Adults emerge from soil beginning in May to July depending on location.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Aphthona czwalinai Weise 1888
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Aphthona czwalinai. 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 Aphthona czwalinai
What is Aphthona czwalinai?
Aphthona czwalinai is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Aphthona czwalinai?
Adults: 2.8-3.5 mm Larvae: 1-5 mm
How do you identify Aphthona czwalinai?
Shiny metallic black. Adults indistinguishable from A. lacertosa
Where is Aphthona czwalinai found?
Range: native to w. Palaearctic (C. Europe to C. Asia)
What does Aphthona czwalinai eat?
The diet of the Aphthona czwalinai includes recorded host: Euphorbia esula.
What is the life cycle of a Aphthona czwalinai?
Adults emerge from soil beginning in May to July depending on location.