Donacia versicolorea
This record describes Donacia versicolorea (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size: 6.2 to 8.9 mm. The elytra can give a dark purplish or bronzy appearance depending on light conditions. 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. Various still and flowing water-bodies where there are Pondweeds ( Potamogeton sp.). Most likely to be encountered in July and August. Associated with Pondweeds ( Potamogeton sp.). 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
Various still and flowing water-bodies where there are Pondweeds (
Seasonal Activity
Most likely to be encountered in July and August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Associated with Pondweeds (
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is quite local in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Donacia versicolorea. 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 versicolorea (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Donacia versicolorea
What is Donacia versicolorea?
Donacia versicolorea is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Donacia versicolorea?
6.2 to 8.9 mm. The elytra can give a dark purplish or bronzy appearance depending on light conditions.
Where is Donacia versicolorea found?
Habitat: Various still and flowing water-bodies where there are Pondweeds (
When is Donacia versicolorea active?
Donacia versicolorea: seasonal activity - Most likely to be encountered in July and August..
What is the life cycle of a Donacia versicolorea?
Associated with Pondweeds (