Bronze Flea Beetle vs Golden-backed Snipe Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Bronze Flea Beetle Golden-backed Snipe Fly
Scientific Name Altica ambiens Chrysopilus thoracicus
Order Coleoptera Diptera
Family Chrysomelidae Rhagionidae
Size 4-6 mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Wetlands Woodlands
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions North America Eastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Bronze Flea Beetle

A metallic bronze to greenish flea beetle with prominent hind leg development. It feeds on alder leaves in wetland habitats across North America.

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Did You Know?

Heavy infestations can cause nearly complete defoliation of alder shrubs, which then produce a second flush of leaves later in the season.

Golden-backed Snipe Fly

A striking fly with golden thoracic hairs and dark wings that rests head-down on foliage. Larvae are predators in soil and leaf litter.

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Did You Know?

It characteristically rests on vegetation with its head pointed downward, ready to pounce on passing prey.