About Alder Leaf Beetle
A metallic dark violet-blue beetle that feeds on alder trees. Heavy infestations can completely defoliate alder trees along waterways.
Did You Know?
After being absent from Britain for decades, it dramatically recolonised southern England in the early 2000s.
How to Identify Alder Leaf Beetle
Alder Leaf Beetle (Agelastica alni) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Chrysomelidae. Adults typically measure 6-7 mm.
Alder Leaf Beetle Habitat
Alder Leaf Beetle is found in ponds & lakes habitats, particularly across Europe, Western Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Alder Leaf Beetle Diet and Feeding
Alder Leaf Beetle is a herbivore, feeding on plant material including leaves, stems, flowers, and other vegetation. Herbivorous insects play a significant role in ecosystems by influencing plant growth and serving as a food source for predators.
Where Is Alder Leaf Beetle Found?
Alder Leaf Beetle can be found in Europe, Western Asia, where it inhabits ponds & lakes environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Alder Leaf Beetle can be found
Is Alder Leaf Beetle Dangerous?
Alder Leaf Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Alder Leaf Beetle Role in Nature
Alder Leaf Beetle is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Alder Leaf Beetle
What does Alder Leaf Beetle look like?
The Alder Leaf Beetle typically measures 6-7 mm.
Where is Alder Leaf Beetle found?
The Alder Leaf Beetle is found in Europe, Western Asia and typically inhabits ponds & lakes environments.
What does Alder Leaf Beetle eat?
The Alder Leaf Beetle feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Alder Leaf Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Alder Leaf Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Alder Leaf Beetle?
After being absent from Britain for decades, it dramatically recolonised southern England in the early 2000s.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Alder Leaf Beetle (Agelastica alni). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/alder-leaf-beetle
MLA:
"Alder Leaf Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/alder-leaf-beetle.