
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)
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.