Apteropeda orbiculata
This record describes Apteropeda orbiculata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Adults are about 2.5 mm and may be dark metallic green, bronze, copper, blue or violet. The larvae mine the leaves of various plants, and are short, yellow, and with a black head. Adult and Leafmines: Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Various habitats including well wooded areas. The leafmines appear from spring to early summer. Adults are usually recorded from March to September. Overwintering adults are sometimes found in moss and leaf litter. Widespread and fairly frequent, particularly in the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Apteropeda
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats including well wooded areas.
Seasonal Activity
The leafmines appear from spring to early summer. Adults are usually recorded from March to September.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Overwintering adults are sometimes found in moss and leaf litter.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent, particularly in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Apteropeda orbiculata. 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 Apteropeda orbiculata (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Apteropeda orbiculata
What is Apteropeda orbiculata?
Apteropeda orbiculata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Apteropeda orbiculata found?
Habitat: Various habitats including well wooded areas.
When is Apteropeda orbiculata active?
Apteropeda orbiculata: seasonal activity - The leafmines appear from spring to early summer. Adults are usually recorded from March to September..
What is the life cycle of a Apteropeda orbiculata?
Overwintering adults are sometimes found in moss and leaf litter.