Colorado Potato Beetle

Natural Habitat

Agricultural fields, gardens, and areas where host plants from the nightshade family (Solanaceae) are cultivated.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly herbivorous, feeding on plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae), primarily potatoes, but also tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and wild solanum species.

Behavior Patterns

Colorado potato beetles are very destructive at both the larval and adult stages. Larvae and adults typically feed on leaves, often defoliating plants. Females can lay up to 800 eggs in their lifetime. They overwinter as adults in the soil.

Risks & Benefits

Potential Risks: Significant agricultural pest, causing substantial crop damage to potato and other solanaceous crops, leading to economic losses for farmers. They can develop pesticide resistance. Benefits: No direct benefits for humans, but they are part of the food chain for certain predators and parasites.

Identified on: 8/31/2025