Hairy Leaf Beetle
Glyptoscelis pubescens
This record describes Glyptoscelis pubescens (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The large size, dark color, scaly dorsal surface, and the expanded lateral lobes of the prothorax will distinguish this species. (E.G. Riley)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Eumolpinae
- Tribe
- Eumolpini
- Genus
- Glyptoscelis
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. NA (QC-FL to MB-TX)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: hosts: Pinaceae (fir, spruce, pine, and hemlock)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Glyptoscelis pubescens (Fabricius 1777)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Glyptoscelis pubescens. 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 Hairy Leaf Beetle (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , metrioptera
Frequently Asked Questions About Hairy Leaf Beetle
What is Hairy Leaf Beetle?
Hairy Leaf Beetle (Glyptoscelis pubescens) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Hairy Leaf Beetle?
6 mm
How do you identify Hairy Leaf Beetle?
The large size, dark color, scaly dorsal surface, and the expanded lateral lobes of the prothorax will distinguish this species. (E.G. Riley)
Where is Hairy Leaf Beetle found?
Range: e. NA (QC-FL to MB-TX)
What does Hairy Leaf Beetle eat?
The diet of the Hairy Leaf Beetle includes hosts: Pinaceae (fir, spruce, pine, and hemlock).