Phyllotreta vittula
This record describes Phyllotreta vittula (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Approximately 2mm. The elytra are black with longitudinal straw coloured or orangey-yellow stripes. Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species (a photograph alone is not normally sufficient because key features are too small or hidden) and/or there are one or more similar species and confusion is common. Margins of arable fields and roadside verges Widespread in the southern half of Britain. No additional images available for this species.
Identification notes
- online help
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
Margins of arable fields and roadside verges
Seasonal Activity
March to October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllotreta vittula. 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 vittula (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phyllotreta vittula
What is Phyllotreta vittula?
Phyllotreta vittula is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How do you identify Phyllotreta vittula?
- online help
Where is Phyllotreta vittula found?
Habitat: Margins of arable fields and roadside verges
When is Phyllotreta vittula active?
Phyllotreta vittula: seasonal activity - March to October..