Pink-winged Leaf Beetle (or similar tortoise beetle)
Scientific Name: Stolas costata (likely)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Chrysomelidae
Size: Approximately 10mm to 15mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Tropical and subtropical forests, gardens, and woodlands; often found on host plants in the morning glory family (Convolvulaceae).
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous; both larvae and adults feed on the leaves of host plants, typically sweet potatoes and other morning glories.
Behavior Patterns
They are known for their defensive shells and ability to cling tightly to leaves. Many species in this family exhibit maternal care for their eggs and larvae.
Risks & Benefits
No risk to humans; they do not bite or sting. They can be minor garden pests but provide ecological benefit as food for birds and predatory insects.
Identified on: 4/21/2026