Alder Leaf Beetle
Chrysomela interrupta
This record describes Chrysomela interrupta (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Perhaps in a mimicry complex with Coleomegilla maculata - Spotted Pink Lady Beetle --
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chrysomelinae
- Tribe
- Chrysomelini
- Genus
- Chrysomela
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. US (RI-FL to OK-TX) - Map , mostly se US
Diet and Behavior
Diet: both larvae and adults host on Alder ( Alnus , Betulaceae) ( 3 )
Life History
larvae feed communally:
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Chrysomela interrupta Fabricius 1801
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Chrysomela interrupta. 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 Alder Leaf Beetle (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by cotinis , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Alder Leaf Beetle
What is Alder Leaf Beetle?
Alder Leaf Beetle (Chrysomela interrupta) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Alder Leaf Beetle found?
Range: e. US (RI-FL to OK-TX) - Map , mostly se US
What does Alder Leaf Beetle eat?
The diet of the Alder Leaf Beetle includes both larvae and adults host on Alder ( Alnus , Betulaceae) ( 3 ).
What is the life cycle of a Alder Leaf Beetle?
larvae feed communally: