Hawthorn Leaf Beetle
Lochmaea crataegi
This record describes Lochmaea crataegi (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This leaf beetle has characteristic black markings on a red background. It is seen along hedgerows and woodland where it feeds on Hawthorn leaves. Reasonably common and widespread in England and Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Lochmaea
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is seen along hedgerows and woodland where it feeds on Hawthorn leaves.
Seasonal Activity
April to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Reasonably common and widespread in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lochmaea crataegi. 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 Hawthorn Leaf Beetle (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawthorn Leaf Beetle
What is Hawthorn Leaf Beetle?
Hawthorn Leaf Beetle (Lochmaea crataegi) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Hawthorn Leaf Beetle found?
Habitat: It is seen along hedgerows and woodland where it feeds on Hawthorn leaves.
When is Hawthorn Leaf Beetle active?
Hawthorn Leaf Beetle: seasonal activity - April to August..