Water-lily Leaf Beetle
Galerucella nymphaeae
This record describes Galerucella nymphaeae (species). Recorded family: Chrysomelidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size: 4 to 8 mm. Basic colour varies from yellowish brown to brick-red and the elytra usually have a paler margin. Galerucella nymphaeae is almost identical to G. sagittariae and they cannot easily be distinguished, though the food plant helps with sagittariae on Water Dock and other emergent plants and nymphaeae on Water-lilies. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. It is also essential to state whether the species was found on its foodplant as this is a major factor in determining the species. Adults hibernate under leaf sheaths of Bulrush ( Typha latifolia ) Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales. 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
- Galerucini
- Genus
- Galerucella (Water-lily Beetle)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
On Water-lilies.
Seasonal Activity
Summer and autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Adults hibernate under leaf sheaths of Bulrush (
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Galerucella nymphaeae. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Water-lily Leaf Beetle
What is Water-lily Leaf Beetle?
Water-lily Leaf Beetle (Galerucella nymphaeae) is a species in the family Chrysomelidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Water-lily Leaf Beetle?
4 to 8 mm. Basic colour varies from yellowish brown to brick-red and the elytra usually have a paler margin.
Where is Water-lily Leaf Beetle found?
Habitat: On Water-lilies.
When is Water-lily Leaf Beetle active?
Water-lily Leaf Beetle: seasonal activity - Summer and autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Water-lily Leaf Beetle?
Adults hibernate under leaf sheaths of Bulrush (