Gastrophysa polygoni
This record describes Gastrophysa polygoni (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a small and colourful leaf beetle, no more than 5mm in length, with metallic green wing cases and head, whilst the thorax is orange. Associated with plants of the Polygonum genus, including bistorts, knotweeds, and knotgrass. Widespread and quite frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chrysomelinae
- Tribe
- Chrysomelini
- Genus
- Gastrophysa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found around its host plants.
Seasonal Activity
Spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Associated with plants of the Polygonum genus, including bistorts, knotweeds, and knotgrass.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and quite frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Gastrophysa polygoni. 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 Gastrophysa polygoni (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Gastrophysa polygoni
What is Gastrophysa polygoni?
Gastrophysa polygoni is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Gastrophysa polygoni found?
Habitat: Found around its host plants.
When is Gastrophysa polygoni active?
Gastrophysa polygoni: seasonal activity - Spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Gastrophysa polygoni?
Associated with plants of the Polygonum genus, including bistorts, knotweeds, and knotgrass.