Bug Identifier
Flea Beetle
Community identification

Flea Beetle

Alticini (Tribe)

Order & Family
Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae
Size
1.5 mm to 3.0 mm (approximately 0.06 to 0.12 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Gardens, agricultural fields, and meadows; often found on host plants such as vegetables and weeds.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on plant leaves (creating characteristic 'shot holes'), while larvae typically feed on plant roots.

Behavior Patterns

Nervous and highly active; they possess enlarged hind legs that allow them to jump long distances when disturbed, similar to fleas. They undergo a complete metamorphosis from egg to larva, pupa, and adult.

Risks & Benefits

Considered a significant agricultural pest that can damage or kill young seedlings. They pose no physical risk to humans but can cause substantial economic loss in home gardens and commercial crops.