
Community identification
Flea beetle (likely)
Alticini (genus/species indeterminate)
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae
- Size
- Usually 1.5–4 mm long; this specimen appears only a few millimeters in length.
Natural Habitat
Vegetation, leaf litter, gardens, and agricultural fields; adults often occur on plant foliage. The photograph is insufficient for species-level identification.
Diet & Feeding
Adults chew small holes in leaves, especially brassicas and other herbaceous plants; larvae typically feed on roots or underground plant tissues.
Behavior Patterns
Small, shiny beetles that jump strongly when disturbed using enlarged hind legs. Adults are most active in warm conditions; eggs and larvae develop in soil near host plants.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to people and pets and do not bite. Some species are agricultural pests, while others contribute to food webs and may help regulate weeds.