Donacia marginata
This record describes Donacia marginata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size: 8 to 10mm. Elytra usually golden bronze, with variable reddish-purple patches and sides. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. On emergent vegetation, including reedbeds at the edges of various water-bodies and wetland/damp habitats. Most likely to be encountered from May to August. Associated with Branched bur-reed and possibly also other wetland/emergent plants. Widespread, though rather local, more frequent in the south, but recorded as far north as south west Scotland. 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
On emergent vegetation, including reedbeds at the edges of various water-bodies and wetland/damp habitats.
Seasonal Activity
Most likely to be encountered from May to August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Associated with Branched bur-reed and possibly also other wetland/emergent plants.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread, though rather local, more frequent in the south, but recorded as far north as south west Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Donacia marginata. 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 marginata
What is Donacia marginata?
Donacia marginata is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Donacia marginata?
8 to 10mm. Elytra usually golden bronze, with variable reddish-purple patches and sides.
Where is Donacia marginata found?
Habitat: On emergent vegetation, including reedbeds at the edges of various water-bodies and wetland/damp habitats.
When is Donacia marginata active?
Donacia marginata: seasonal activity - Most likely to be encountered from May to August..
What is the life cycle of a Donacia marginata?
Associated with Branched bur-reed and possibly also other wetland/emergent plants.