Goldenrod Leafminer
Microrhopala vittata
This record describes Microrhopala vittata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
varies from bold to nearly entirely black The dull reddish stripes on the elytra, the 8-segmented antennae and the smooth (not serrate/toothed) elytral margins distinguish this species Fairly variable in coloration: specimens from different host plants having different color patterns which has led to a number of synonyms (Comment by Dr. Staines) adults often found crawling among the leaves of goldenrod bunch galls made by Rhopalomyia solidaginis
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cassidinae
- Tribe
- Chalepini
- Genus
- Microrhopala
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
transcontinental (BC-NB to CA-GA) - Map , mostly e. NA to PNW, uncommon along Gulf coast
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Goldenrod ( Solidago , Asteraceae) ( 5 ) also reported on Silphium laciniatum and Silphium perfoliatum (Asteraceae) ( 5 ) , and Silphium albiflorum ( 6 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Microrhopala vittata (Fabricius 1798)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Microrhopala vittata. 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 Goldenrod Leafminer (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by cotinis , Beatriz Moisset , Matthew Roth , Chuck Entz , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Goldenrod Leafminer
What is Goldenrod Leafminer?
Goldenrod Leafminer (Microrhopala vittata) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Goldenrod Leafminer?
varies from bold to nearly entirely black The dull reddish stripes on the elytra, the 8-segmented antennae and the smooth (not serrate/toothed) elytral margins distinguish this species Fairly variable in coloration: specimens from different host plants having different color patterns which has led to a number of synonyms (Comment by Dr. Staines)
Where is Goldenrod Leafminer found?
Range: transcontinental (BC-NB to CA-GA) - Map , mostly e. NA to PNW, uncommon along Gulf coast
What does Goldenrod Leafminer eat?
The diet of the Goldenrod Leafminer includes Goldenrod ( Solidago , Asteraceae) ( 5 ) also reported on Silphium laciniatum and Silphium perfoliatum (Asteraceae) ( 5 ) , and Silphium albiflorum ( 6 ).