Small Striped Flea Beetle
Phyllotreta undulata
This record describes Phyllotreta undulata (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A tiny beetle, which measures little more than about 1.5 mm. Its black elytra are marked with broad straw yellow longitudinal stripes. It is similar to Phyllotreta nemorum and detailed examination is necessary to be certain of the species. Their preferred host plants are Brassicas. All year round, but mainly in the summer months. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. No additional images available for this species.
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
Habitat
Their preferred host plants are Brassicas.
Seasonal Activity
All year round, but mainly in the summer months.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phyllotreta undulata. 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 Small Striped Flea Beetle (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Striped Flea Beetle
What is Small Striped Flea Beetle?
Small Striped Flea Beetle (Phyllotreta undulata) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Small Striped Flea Beetle found?
Habitat: Their preferred host plants are Brassicas.
When is Small Striped Flea Beetle active?
Small Striped Flea Beetle: seasonal activity - All year round, but mainly in the summer months..