Donacia thalassina
This record describes Donacia thalassina (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size 6.5 to 8.5 mm. Shiny bronze, usually with a coppery tinge, sometimes greyish or greenish on the pronotum and elytra. 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. Most likely to be encountered from May to late summer. Three-year life cycle, overwintering as 2nd instar larvae (winter 1) and 5th instar larvae (winter 2). Then, hibernation may occur as pupae or as adults in cocoons. Associated with a range of water plants. Widespread but uncommon in the UK where it is classed as Scarce (Notable B). 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
By standing water and in marshy areas.
Seasonal Activity
Most likely to be encountered from May to late summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Three-year life cycle, overwintering as 2nd instar larvae (winter 1) and 5th instar larvae (winter 2). Then, hibernation may occur as pupae or as adults in cocoons. Associated with a range of water plants.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but uncommon in the UK where it is classed as Scarce (Notable B).
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Donacia thalassina. 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 Donacia thalassina (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Donacia thalassina
What is Donacia thalassina?
Donacia thalassina is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Donacia thalassina?
6.5 to 8.5 mm. Shiny bronze, usually with a coppery tinge, sometimes greyish or greenish on the pronotum and elytra.
Where is Donacia thalassina found?
Habitat: By standing water and in marshy areas.
When is Donacia thalassina active?
Donacia thalassina: seasonal activity - Most likely to be encountered from May to late summer..
What is the life cycle of a Donacia thalassina?
Three-year life cycle, overwintering as 2nd instar larvae (winter 1) and 5th instar larvae (winter 2). Then, hibernation may occur as pupae or as adults in cocoons. Associated with a range of water plants.