About Brassy Willow Beetle
A small, shiny metallic bronze to greenish beetle that feeds on willow and poplar. Adults overwinter in leaf litter and emerge in spring to colonize new willow growth.
Did You Know?
Larvae secrete salicylaldehyde, a chemical obtained from salicin in willow leaves, which smells like antiseptic and deters predators.
How to Identify Brassy Willow Beetle
Brassy Willow Beetle (Phratora vitellinae) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Chrysomelidae. Adults typically measure 3-5 mm.
Brassy Willow Beetle Habitat
Brassy Willow Beetle is found in rivers & streams habitats, particularly across Europe, Northern Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Brassy Willow Beetle Diet and Feeding
Brassy Willow Beetle is a detritivore that feeds on decaying organic matter and dead plant material. By breaking down dead matter, detritivores play a crucial role in nutrient recycling and soil formation.
Where Is Brassy Willow Beetle Found?
Brassy Willow Beetle can be found in Europe, Northern Asia, where it inhabits rivers & streams environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Brassy Willow Beetle can be found
Is Brassy Willow Beetle Dangerous?
Brassy Willow 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.
Brassy Willow Beetle Role in Nature
Brassy Willow Beetle plays a vital role in decomposition and nutrient recycling. By breaking down dead organic matter, it helps return nutrients to the soil, supporting plant growth and maintaining ecosystem health.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Brassy Willow Beetle
What does Brassy Willow Beetle look like?
The Brassy Willow Beetle typically measures 3-5 mm.
Where is Brassy Willow Beetle found?
The Brassy Willow Beetle is found in Europe, Northern Asia and typically inhabits rivers & streams environments.
What does Brassy Willow Beetle eat?
The Brassy Willow Beetle feeds on decaying organic matter and dead plant material.
Is Brassy Willow Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Brassy Willow Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Brassy Willow Beetle?
Larvae secrete salicylaldehyde, a chemical obtained from salicin in willow leaves, which smells like antiseptic and deters predators.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Brassy Willow Beetle (Phratora vitellinae). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/brassy-willow-beetle
MLA:
"Brassy Willow Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/brassy-willow-beetle.