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Alder leaf beetle

Alder leaf beetle

Agelastica alni

A species of Agelastica

The alder leaf beetle got its common name because it feeds mostly on the leaves of alder trees during both the larvae and beetle phases. The trees can usually survive this feeding pattern, especially considering these beetles only reproduce a new generation once per year.

General Info About Alder leaf beetle
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Attributes of Alder leaf beetle
Colors
Black
Blue
Habitat
the small Alder
Adult Food Sources
Leaves of alnus species (alder)
Larva Food Source
Leaves of alnus species (alder)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Alder leaf beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Alder leaf beetle is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Alder leaf beetle feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
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Species Status of Alder leaf beetle
It is distributed in Europe, the Caucasus, Siberia, north-eastern Kazakhstan, and in the 19th century was introduced to the United States. Previously rare, and considered extinct in the UK, since being found in Manchester in 2004 it appears to be on the increase in the North West of England.
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Distribution Area of Alder leaf beetle
Europe, the Caucasus, Siberia, north-eastern Kazakhstan, United States
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Appearance of Alder leaf beetle
The alder leaf beetle a relatively small beetle, around 6 - 7 mm, black or metallic blue in colour. The larvae are normally black.
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How to Identify Alder leaf beetle?

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Life Cycle of Alder leaf beetle
Egg The eggs of alder leaf beetle are laid on host plants. They are small, oval, and initially translucent, changing color as the embryos develop. The eggs serve solely as a developmental stage with no locomotion or feeding.
Larva Upon hatching, alder leaf beetle larvae are worm-like, lacking wings, and are voracious feeders specializing in plant material. As they grow, they molt several times, increasing in size with each instar, and may change in coloration.
Pupal After the final larval instar, alder leaf beetle enters the pupal stage. Encased within a protective cocoon or cell, it undergoes significant transformation. The pupa is generally immobile and does not feed as it restructures internally.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult alder leaf beetle's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. Their exoskeleton is fully hardened, and they are now mobile, focusing on reproduction and dispersal.
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Adult Size of Alder leaf beetle
6 - 7 mm
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Predators of Alder leaf beetle Larvae
Arachnids, insectivorous birds, rodents, small mammals
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Predators of Adult Alder leaf beetle
Birds, small mammals, insectivorous reptiles, arachnids
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Scientific Classification of Alder leaf beetle
Tips for Finding Alder leaf beetle
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Youth Habitat of Alder leaf beetle
Forests and Woodlands
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Habitat Preferences of Alder leaf beetle Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of alder leaf beetle are typically deposited on the underside of alder leaves. Larvae then emerge and feed on the foliage of their host plant, often on the same alder trees. Searching for these larvae would best be done by inspecting leaves for signs of feeding. Pupation occurs in the soil at the base of the alder tree, so to find pupae, one should look in leaf litter or just beneath the soil surface in proximity to alder trees. The adult alder leaf beetle tends to stay close to alders as well, feeding on leaves and may be found on or near the host plants.
Are Alder leaf beetle harmful?
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Usually, the alder leaf beetle won't threaten or hurt humans. But remember that even a worm will turn. Remember to still be cautious.

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Are Alder leaf beetle harmful to humans?

Some colorful leaf beetles are actually toxic, and their beautiful appearance is warning predators: I am very dangerous, do not eat me! However, just observing with your eyes and touching the leaf beetle with your hand will not be poisoned.
Harmful Effects of Alder leaf beetle
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Forestry Pest

The forestry pest alder leaf beetle inflicts damage during its adult and larval stages by chewing plant tissues, primarily leaves. With no specific host preference, it can cause damage ranging from mild to severe. A limited population results in minor defoliation, while a substantial increase can lead to significant leaf loss, impacting photosynthesis and potentially leading to tree death, which may also affect timber quality and forest ecosystems.

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Agricultural Pests

When alder leaf beetle infests alder trees at the larval stage, it feeds on the leaves, leading to defoliation that can range from mild to severe. Sparse pest populations may only cause cosmetic damage, whereas dense infestations can stress the trees, possibly hindering growth and reducing overall plant health. Although alders are not primary agricultural crops, severe leaf loss can impact ecosystems and human appreciation of these trees.

More Effects of Alder leaf beetle

Beneficial Effects of Alder leaf beetle
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Alder leaf beetle acts as a pollinator incidentally when foraging. While they mainly feed on the foliage of their host plants, their movement from flower to flower may result in the transfer of pollen. This accidental pollination occurs without any specific preference for plants or an intention to gather pollen.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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