Chrysolina oricalcia
This record describes Chrysolina oricalcia (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The elytra are black and have a generally domed appearance, studded by tiny dimples. Found in hedgerows, roadside verges and woodland rides, favouring umbellifer flowers such as Cow Parsley and Hogweed. Around mid summer is the peak period of adult activity. This species is fairly widespread but local throughout England, with most records coming from the south.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Chrysolina
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in hedgerows, roadside verges and woodland rides, favouring umbellifer flowers such as Cow Parsley and Hogweed.
Seasonal Activity
Around mid summer is the peak period of adult activity.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This species is fairly widespread but local throughout England, with most records coming from the south.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Chrysolina oricalcia. 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 Chrysolina oricalcia (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrysolina oricalcia
What is Chrysolina oricalcia?
Chrysolina oricalcia is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Chrysolina oricalcia found?
Habitat: Found in hedgerows, roadside verges and woodland rides, favouring umbellifer flowers such as Cow Parsley and Hogweed.
When is Chrysolina oricalcia active?
Chrysolina oricalcia: seasonal activity - Around mid summer is the peak period of adult activity..