Heather Beetle
Lochmaea suturalis
This record describes Lochmaea suturalis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
4.3 to 6 mm. Brown to dark ochre-coloured Lochmaea caprea is similar but less shiny than L. suturalis . The record must include a note to state whether the beetle was found on Heather. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the record must include a note to state whether the beetle was found on Heather. Anywhere with heathers or heaths plus a damp understory of moss or leaves for egg-laying and pupation. Overwinters as an adult and can be found in most months of the year. Widespread in areas of Britain where Heather is present.
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
Anywhere with heathers or heaths plus a damp understory of moss or leaves for egg-laying and pupation.
Seasonal Activity
Overwinters as an adult and can be found in most months of the year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in areas of Britain where Heather is present.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lochmaea suturalis. 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 Heather Beetle (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Heather Beetle
What is Heather Beetle?
Heather Beetle (Lochmaea suturalis) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Heather Beetle found?
Habitat: Anywhere with heathers or heaths plus a damp understory of moss or leaves for egg-laying and pupation.
When is Heather Beetle active?
Heather Beetle: seasonal activity - Overwinters as an adult and can be found in most months of the year..