Horsetail Flea Beetle
Hippuriphila modeeri
This record describes Hippuriphila modeeri (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a tiny (around 3 mm) flea beetle. Its dark brown punctate elytra become more golden at the rear. Damp places where horsetails are present. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Hippuriphila
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Damp places where horsetails are present.
Seasonal Activity
Peak time is spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Strongly associated with horsetails.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Frequent and widespread in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Hippuriphila modeeri. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Horsetail Flea Beetle
What is Horsetail Flea Beetle?
Horsetail Flea Beetle (Hippuriphila modeeri) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Horsetail Flea Beetle found?
Habitat: Damp places where horsetails are present.
When is Horsetail Flea Beetle active?
Horsetail Flea Beetle: seasonal activity - Peak time is spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Horsetail Flea Beetle?
Strongly associated with horsetails.