Plagiosterna aenea
This record describes Plagiosterna aenea (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
6.5 to 8 mm. Usually metallic or iridescent green, occasionally blue or brassy. Very similar to some other Chrysomelidae species, particularly Chrysolina herbacea . Good quality close up photographs required. Detailed examination of the specimen may be necessary. The foodplant can be a useful guide to species. Associated with Alder and usually found in Alder stands by watercourses and in damp woodlands. Adults hibernate (sometimes in moss) from late August to mid-April. Widespread, but local in Britain and less common in the south. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Plagiosterna
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with Alder and usually found in Alder stands by watercourses and in damp woodlands.
Seasonal Activity
Mid-April to late August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Adults hibernate (sometimes in moss) from late August to mid-April.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread, but local in Britain and less common in the south.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Plagiosterna aenea. 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 Plagiosterna aenea (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Plagiosterna aenea
What is Plagiosterna aenea?
Plagiosterna aenea is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Plagiosterna aenea found?
Habitat: Associated with Alder and usually found in Alder stands by watercourses and in damp woodlands.
When is Plagiosterna aenea active?
Plagiosterna aenea: seasonal activity - Mid-April to late August..
What is the life cycle of a Plagiosterna aenea?
Adults hibernate (sometimes in moss) from late August to mid-April.