Brown Willow Beetle
Galerucella lineola
This record describes Galerucella lineola (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
4-5.4 mm. Tawny brown with black markings on the head. The elytra are coarsely punctuated and the pronotal disc is finely pubescent with a faint dark spot. The antennal segments are pale brown but usually with darker on the dorsal surface. The elytra have an esplanade margin which is broadly of uniform width. Other species in the genus are almost identical visually and detailed examination is necessary to confirm identification. The host plant is often the best indicator of the likely Galerucella species. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Galerucella
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with Willows.
Seasonal Activity
Summer.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Galerucella lineola. 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 Brown Willow Beetle (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Willow Beetle
What is Brown Willow Beetle?
Brown Willow Beetle (Galerucella lineola) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Brown Willow Beetle found?
Habitat: Associated with Willows.
When is Brown Willow Beetle active?
Brown Willow Beetle: seasonal activity - Summer..