Phyllotreta denticornis
This record describes Phyllotreta denticornis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Elytra with only a narrow stripe, or, most commonly, two elongate spots each, or completely black. Dorsally coarsely punctate. Male: antennal segments 4+5 strongly dilated; 6th with a spine on underside; Female: antennal segment 5 longer (up to 1.5 times) than 6.
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
BC-CA, WY
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Phyllotreta denticornis Horn 1889
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllotreta denticornis. 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 Phyllotreta denticornis (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Boris Büche; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllotreta denticornis
What is Phyllotreta denticornis?
Phyllotreta denticornis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phyllotreta denticornis?
2.5-2.8 mm
How do you identify Phyllotreta denticornis?
Elytra with only a narrow stripe, or, most commonly, two elongate spots each, or completely black. Dorsally coarsely punctate. Male: antennal segments 4+5 strongly dilated; 6th with a spine on underside; Female: antennal segment 5 longer (up to 1.5 times) than 6.
Where is Phyllotreta denticornis found?
Range: BC-CA, WY