Chrysolina varians
This record describes Chrysolina varians (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size 4 to 6 mm. A variable leaf beetle, usually reddish or greenish bronze in colour with finely punctate elytra. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chrysomelinae
- Tribe
- Chrysomelini
- Genus
- Chrysolina
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with St Johns-wort
Seasonal Activity
Late spring and 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 Chrysolina varians. 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 Chrysolina varians
What is Chrysolina varians?
Chrysolina varians is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Chrysolina varians?
4 to 6 mm. A variable leaf beetle, usually reddish or greenish bronze in colour with finely punctate elytra.
Where is Chrysolina varians found?
Habitat: Associated with St Johns-wort
When is Chrysolina varians active?
Chrysolina varians: seasonal activity - Late spring and summer..