Phyllotreta exclamationis
This record describes Phyllotreta exclamationis (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 1.5-1.8mm. This tiny beetle is mostly black apart from two triangular yellowish spots on each elytra, occasionally connected into a band. The elytral shape is broadly elliptical and convex. Legs usually black with reddish tibia and tarsi. The antennae are ochreous at the base becoming black towards the tips. Antennomere 5 is modified in both sexes. In males it is thickened and usually darker than 6. In females it is elongated (longer than 4 or 6) and again, often darker than 6. Various habitats, with or near water. Feeds on various Brassicaceae, especially Nasturtium, Rorippa and Cardamine species. Overwinters as an adult in grass tussocks, moss or under bark. Some adults are brachypterous, in which case they are flightless. Widespread in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Rare in Scotland. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Phyllotreta
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Various habitats, with or near water. Feeds on various Brassicaceae, especially Nasturtium, Rorippa and Cardamine species.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Overwinters as an adult in grass tussocks, moss or under bark. Some adults are brachypterous, in which case they are flightless.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Rare in Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllotreta exclamationis. 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 exclamationis (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllotreta exclamationis
What is Phyllotreta exclamationis?
Phyllotreta exclamationis is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phyllotreta exclamationis?
1.5-1.8mm. This tiny beetle is mostly black apart from two triangular yellowish spots on each elytra, occasionally connected into a band. The elytral shape is broadly elliptical and convex. Legs usually black with reddish tibia and tarsi.
Where is Phyllotreta exclamationis found?
Habitat: Various habitats, with or near water. Feeds on various Brassicaceae, especially Nasturtium, Rorippa and Cardamine species.
What is the life cycle of a Phyllotreta exclamationis?
Overwinters as an adult in grass tussocks, moss or under bark. Some adults are brachypterous, in which case they are flightless.