About Crucifer Flea Beetle
A shiny black jumping beetle that causes shothole damage on canola and mustard seedlings. It is one of the most serious pests of prairie canola crops.
Did You Know?
Canola seed treatments with neonicotinoids were developed primarily to combat this beetle.
How to Identify Crucifer Flea Beetle
Crucifer Flea Beetle (Phyllotreta cruciferae) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Chrysomelidae. Adults typically measure 2-3 mm.
Crucifer Flea Beetle Habitat
Crucifer Flea Beetle is found in grasslands habitats, particularly across North America, Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Crucifer Flea Beetle Diet and Feeding
Crucifer Flea 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 Crucifer Flea Beetle Found?
Crucifer Flea Beetle can be found in North America, Europe, where it inhabits grasslands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Crucifer Flea Beetle can be found
Is Crucifer Flea Beetle Dangerous?
Crucifer Flea 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.
Crucifer Flea Beetle Role in Nature
Crucifer Flea 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 Crucifer Flea Beetle
What does Crucifer Flea Beetle look like?
The Crucifer Flea Beetle typically measures 2-3 mm.
Where is Crucifer Flea Beetle found?
The Crucifer Flea Beetle is found in North America, Europe and typically inhabits grasslands environments.
What does Crucifer Flea Beetle eat?
The Crucifer Flea Beetle feeds on plant material including leaves, stems, and other vegetation.
Is Crucifer Flea Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Crucifer Flea Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
Is Crucifer Flea Beetle endangered?
The Crucifer Flea Beetle is currently classified as Not Evaluated by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Crucifer Flea Beetle?
Canola seed treatments with neonicotinoids were developed primarily to combat this beetle.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Crucifer Flea Beetle (Phyllotreta cruciferae). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/crucifer-flea-beetle
MLA:
"Crucifer Flea Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/crucifer-flea-beetle.