Bug Identifier
Flea beetle (likely)
Community identification

Flea beetle (likely)

Alticini spp.

Order & Family
Coleoptera; Chrysomelidae
Size
About 1.5–6 mm long; the photograph is too distant for species-level identification.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Vegetation, garden plants, leaf litter, and occasionally indoor walls after being brought inside on clothing or plants.

Diet & Feeding

Adults chew small, round holes in leaves, especially brassicas and other herbaceous plants; larvae usually feed on roots.

Behavior Patterns

Small, dark, often shiny beetles that jump strongly when disturbed using enlarged hind legs. Most are active in warm conditions and shelter in plant debris.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to people and pets, though heavy infestations can damage seedlings and crops. They are part of food webs and some species help recycle plant material.