Donacia cinerea
This record describes Donacia cinerea (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
7.5 to 11 mm. Most easily identified among the UK Donaciinae by the finely and densely pubescent dorsal surface which gives the species a silky or grey appearance in the field. Elongate with sub-parallel elytra, entirely dull bronze or, occasionally, with a distinct green reflection. Please provide a close-up photograph. Detailed examination may be required to safely confirm this species. Usually seen resting on, or flying between, the foliage of aquatic and amphibious plants at the margins of freshwater. Most likely to be encountered from May to August. Both larvae and adults feed mainly on Bulrush species. Formerly much more widespread and common in the U.K. it is now local and generally rare throughout England and Wales. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Donacia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually seen resting on, or flying between, the foliage of aquatic and amphibious plants at the margins of freshwater.
Seasonal Activity
Most likely to be encountered from May to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Both larvae and adults feed mainly on Bulrush species.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Formerly much more widespread and common in the U.K. it is now local and generally rare throughout England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Donacia cinerea. 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 Donacia cinerea
What is Donacia cinerea?
Donacia cinerea is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Donacia cinerea found?
Habitat: Usually seen resting on, or flying between, the foliage of aquatic and amphibious plants at the margins of freshwater.
When is Donacia cinerea active?
Donacia cinerea: seasonal activity - Most likely to be encountered from May to August..
What is the life cycle of a Donacia cinerea?
Both larvae and adults feed mainly on Bulrush species.