Turnip Flea Beetle vs Dimple-back Ground Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Turnip Flea Beetle Dimple-back Ground Beetle
Scientific Name Phyllotreta nemorum Elaphrus riparius
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Chrysomelidae Carabidae
Size 3-4 mm 6-9 mm
Habitat Farmland Ponds & Lakes
Diet Seed Feeders Predators
Regions Europe Europe, northern Asia, North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Turnip Flea Beetle

A small, shiny black beetle with a broad yellow longitudinal stripe on each elytron. It is a significant pest of turnips, swedes, and oilseed rape in Europe.

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Did You Know?

Spring populations can reach such high densities that entire fields of brassica seedlings can be destroyed within days of germination.

Dimple-back Ground Beetle

A small, fast-running beetle with distinctive cup-shaped depressions on its elytra that create a dimpled appearance. It has iridescent bronze-green coloring and runs on wet mud.

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Did You Know?

Each dimple on its elytra contains a raised center that creates a mirror-like reflection, giving the beetle a uniquely textured and sparkling appearance when viewed up close.