Tortoise Beetle
Cassida vibex
This record describes Cassida vibex (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of several similar beetles with flat, rounded bodies. It is pale golden green with a darker central band on its back. Amongst vegetation on roadsides and field margins etc. It is often found on Thistles and Yarrow in summer. Found mainly south of a line from the Severn to the Wash.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Chrysomelidae
- Genus
- Cassida
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Amongst vegetation on roadsides and field margins etc. It is often found on Thistles and Yarrow in summer.
Seasonal Activity
April to September.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Found mainly south of a line from the Severn to the Wash.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Cassida vibex. 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 Tortoise Beetle (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tortoise Beetle
What is Tortoise Beetle?
Tortoise Beetle (Cassida vibex) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Tortoise Beetle found?
Habitat: Amongst vegetation on roadsides and field margins etc. It is often found on Thistles and Yarrow in summer.
When is Tortoise Beetle active?
Tortoise Beetle: seasonal activity - April to September..