Chrysolina polita
This record describes Chrysolina polita (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 6.5 to 8.5 mm. Conspicuous with its shiny red-chestnut elytra and dark metallic green pronotum. Amongst the foliage of trees and bushes. Fairly common and widespread in England and Wales, fewer records from Scotland.
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
Amongst the foliage of trees and bushes.
Seasonal Activity
March to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
They generally overwinter as adults.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common and widespread in England and Wales, fewer records from Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Chrysolina polita. 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 polita (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Chrysolina polita
What is Chrysolina polita?
Chrysolina polita is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Chrysolina polita?
6.5 to 8.5 mm. Conspicuous with its shiny red-chestnut elytra and dark metallic green pronotum.
Where is Chrysolina polita found?
Habitat: Amongst the foliage of trees and bushes.
When is Chrysolina polita active?
Chrysolina polita: seasonal activity - March to October..
What is the life cycle of a Chrysolina polita?
They generally overwinter as adults.