Colorado Potato Beetle

Agricultural fields, gardens, and any areas where host plants (potatoes, tomatoes, etc.) are cultivated.

Primarily feeds on plants in the Solanaceae family, especially potato, but also tomato, eggplant, pepper, and some wild nightshades.

Adult beetles emerge in spring, mate, and lay eggs on the undersides of leaves. Larvae hatch and feed voraciously, molting through several instars. Both larvae and adults cause significant defoliation. They can undergo multiple generations per year, especially in warmer climates. Adults can overwinter in the soil.

Risks: Major agricultural pest, causing significant crop damage and economic losses, particularly to potato crops. Can develop resistance to insecticides. Benefits: No direct benefits to humans; considered an economic pest.