Mustard Beetle vs Tobacco Flea Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mustard Beetle Tobacco Flea Beetle
Scientific Name Phaedon cochleariae Epitrix hirtipennis
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Chrysomelidae
Size 3-4 mm 1.5-2 mm
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe North America, Central America
Conservation Least Concern Not Evaluated

Mustard Beetle

A small metallic blue-black beetle that feeds on watercress, mustard and other crucifers. Both adults and larvae damage crops. Common in damp habitats near streams.

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Did You Know?

Commercial watercress growers regard this tiny beetle as one of their most persistent pest problems.

Tobacco Flea Beetle

A tiny brownish beetle that creates small round holes in tobacco and other solanaceous crop leaves. Larval feeding on roots further weakens plants.

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Did You Know?

Its feeding holes reduce the quality and market value of tobacco wrapper leaves used for cigars.