Azurea Tortoise Beetle
Cassida azurea
This record describes Cassida azurea (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
introduced during 1970s to combat the invasive bladder campion ( Silene vulgaris ) ; in Canada, released during 1989–1994
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cassidinae
- Tribe
- Cassidini
- Genus
- Cassida
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
native to w. Palaearctic (Europe to Siberia), introduced to NA as biocontrol (MB‒AB)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: hosts: Caryophyllaceae
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Cassida azurea Fabricius 1801
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cassida azurea. 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 Azurea Tortoise Beetle
What is Azurea Tortoise Beetle?
Azurea Tortoise Beetle (Cassida azurea) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Azurea Tortoise Beetle?
4.5–6.0 mm
Where is Azurea Tortoise Beetle found?
Range: native to w. Palaearctic (Europe to Siberia), introduced to NA as biocontrol (MB‒AB)
What does Azurea Tortoise Beetle eat?
The diet of the Azurea Tortoise Beetle includes hosts: Caryophyllaceae.