Crucifer Flea Beetle
Phyllotreta cruciferae
This record describes Phyllotreta cruciferae (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
separated easily from other congeners by the absence of pale markings AND a bluish-green lustre An important pest
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Galerucinae
- Tribe
- Alticini
- Genus
- Phyllotreta
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
adventive across Canada and n. US - Map , native to Eurasia
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Mainly on mustard and related plants (Cruciferae), especially Brassica spp.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze 1777)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllotreta cruciferae. 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 Crucifer Flea Beetle (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Loh; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Crucifer Flea Beetle
What is Crucifer Flea Beetle?
Crucifer Flea Beetle (Phyllotreta cruciferae) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Crucifer Flea Beetle?
1.8‒2.5 mm
How do you identify Crucifer Flea Beetle?
separated easily from other congeners by the absence of pale markings AND a bluish-green lustre
Where is Crucifer Flea Beetle found?
Range: adventive across Canada and n. US - Map , native to Eurasia
What does Crucifer Flea Beetle eat?
The diet of the Crucifer Flea Beetle includes Mainly on mustard and related plants (Cruciferae), especially Brassica spp..