Cryptocephalus pusillus
This record describes Cryptocephalus pusillus (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A small leaf beetle of around 3mm. The males often have more or less extensive dark markings on the creamy yellow elytra, unlike the females. Summer and autumn, persisting later than many similar species. Grazes on the live leaves of various trees. Widespread and fairly frequent in the southern half of Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Cryptocephalus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Woodland and well wooded areas.
Seasonal Activity
Summer and autumn, persisting later than many similar species.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Grazes on the live leaves of various trees.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cryptocephalus pusillus. 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 Cryptocephalus pusillus (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryptocephalus pusillus
What is Cryptocephalus pusillus?
Cryptocephalus pusillus is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Cryptocephalus pusillus found?
Habitat: Woodland and well wooded areas.
When is Cryptocephalus pusillus active?
Cryptocephalus pusillus: seasonal activity - Summer and autumn, persisting later than many similar species..
What is the life cycle of a Cryptocephalus pusillus?
Grazes on the live leaves of various trees.