Plagiodera versicolora
This record describes Plagiodera versicolora (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
2.5-4.5mm. A very rounded leaf-beetle. Upperside is metallic green or blue, though occasionally purple. The underside, femora and tibiae are black, as are the tips of the antennae. The elytral punctures are generally in a confused pattern but with some hint of rows. There are usually small dimples in the elytra near the tips. Three generations from spring to late August. The hibernating adults begin to emerge in the spring when foliage appears. These adults feed on the new leaves; cutting holes in them, before laying the eggs that become the second generation. It is the third generation that usually hibernate, although a few may breed to start a late fourth generation. More common in the southern half of England than the rest of Britain.
Wikipedia reference for Plagiodera versicolora: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plagiodera_versicolora.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chrysomelinae
- Tribe
- Chrysomelini
- Genus
- Plagiodera
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Mostly in places where Willows grow.
Seasonal Activity
Three generations from spring to late August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The hibernating adults begin to emerge in the spring when foliage appears. These adults feed on the new leaves; cutting holes in them, before laying the eggs that become the second generation. It is the third generation that usually hibernate, although a few may breed to start a late fourth generation.
Additional species information
Recorded status
More common in the southern half of England than the rest of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Plagiodera versicolora. 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 Plagiodera versicolora (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Plagiodera versicolora
What is Plagiodera versicolora?
Plagiodera versicolora is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Plagiodera versicolora found?
Habitat: Mostly in places where Willows grow.
When is Plagiodera versicolora active?
Plagiodera versicolora: seasonal activity - Three generations from spring to late August..
What is the life cycle of a Plagiodera versicolora?
The hibernating adults begin to emerge in the spring when foliage appears. These adults feed on the new leaves; cutting holes in them, before laying the eggs that become the second generation. It is the third generation that usually hibernate, although a few may breed to start a late fourth generation.