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Shiny flea beetle

Shiny flea beetle

Asphaera lustrans

A species of Asphaera, Also known as Gator beetle

The shiny flea beetle (Asphaera lustrans) relates back to the second half of its scientific name, which is related to the English word "luster." The shiny color on the top of the body and orange head make this a stunning insect. The color scheme has caused people from the state of Florida to call this the "Gator Beetle" as a tribute to their college football team.

General Info About Shiny flea beetle
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Attributes of Shiny flea beetle
Habitat
prickly pear cactus
Adult Food Sources
Leaves of specific host plants, plant flowers, fresh plant shoots, pollen, plant surface waxes
Larva Food Source
Leaf tissue of specific host plants, plant stems, roots, flower parts, soft plant tissues
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Shiny flea beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Shiny flea 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 Shiny flea 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.
Predatory
Not reported
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Life Cycle of Shiny flea beetle
Egg The egg phase signifies the first life stage of shiny flea beetle. These eggs are often laid in clusters and exhibit a hard-outer coating to protect the developing larvae inside. They are minute and usually adhere to the underside of leaves.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of shiny flea beetle emerges with a soft exoskeleton and a segmented body. It is primarily focused on feeding and growth, molting several times and showing considerable size increments with each molt. The larva often has a different coloration than the adult.
Pupal The pupal stage is a dormant phase of shiny flea beetle where significant transformation occurs within a protective cocoon or case. The pupa is generally immobile and undergoes radical morphological changes, transitioning towards the adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult shiny flea beetle displays the development of wings and functional reproductive organs. Its exoskeleton is fully sclerotized and pigmentation is distinguishable. As an adult, shiny flea beetle becomes mobile and its primary function shifts to reproduction and dispersal.
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Adult Size of Shiny flea beetle
5 - 7 mm
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Predators of Shiny flea beetle Larvae
Amphibians, birds, reptiles, insectivorous mammals, predatory insects
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Predators of Adult Shiny flea beetle
Birds, small mammals, reptiles, spiders, predatory insects
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Interesting Facts About Shiny flea beetle
Shiny flea beetle can reflect circularly polarized light, a rare trait usually found in deep-sea creatures for communication.
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Scientific Classification of Shiny flea beetle
Tips for Finding Shiny flea beetle
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How Can You Attract Shiny flea beetle
Soft plant tissues or leaves from preferred host plants as shiny flea beetle are known for feeding on these during their larval stage.
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Habitat Preferences of Shiny flea beetle Through Different Life Stages
The egg stages of shiny flea beetle are typically deposited on the underside of the host plant leaves, where they remain until hatching. Larvae then feed on the surrounding vegetation, often on the same plants the eggs were laid upon, but can also be found on stems and in the surrounding soil as they mature. Pupation generally occurs in the soil beneath the host plants, where larvae burrow to form a pupal chamber. Adults emerge from the pupation site and are most commonly sighted on or near the host plants, with a preference for the foliage. To find each stage, check the undersides of leaves for eggs, inspect plant stems and soil for larvae, and explore soil around the host plants for pupae.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Shiny flea beetle
Dusk or dawn when shiny flea beetle are most active due to cooler temperatures and higher humidity which is preferred by many Coleoptera.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Shiny flea beetle
Overcast or after a rainfall, as the increased humidity and wet conditions can make shiny flea beetle more active and visible.
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How and Where Can You Find Shiny flea beetle at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of shiny flea beetle are often laid on the undersides of leaves. To find them, carefully inspect the undersides of leaves on host plants for small clusters of eggs.
Larva Shiny flea beetle larvae can be found on host plants, feeding on leaves. Look for them by checking for signs of feeding damage on leaves and nearby the damage.
Pupal Shiny flea beetle pupae can be difficult to find as they are often buried in soil or debris near the host plant. Search the ground or leaf litter around host plants for pupation sites.
Adult Adult shiny flea beetle can be observed on or near host plants. Sightings are common during the dawn or dusk. Listen for the distinctive sound of their movement through vegetation and inspect both the tops and undersides of leaves and stems.
Are Shiny flea beetle harmful?
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Usually, the shiny flea 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 Shiny flea 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 Shiny flea beetle
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Hurt Plant

Adult and larval shiny flea beetle cause widespread damage by feeding on a variety of plant leaves, leading to defoliation and compromised photosynthesis, which can range from mild to severe based on the infestation levels.

More Effects of Shiny flea beetle

Beneficial Effects of Shiny flea beetle
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Pollination Behavior Reason
Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Shiny flea beetle plays an interesting role in pollination. While not a dedicated pollinator, this insect affects plant reproduction inadvertently. While they feast on foliage, they may unintentionally transfer pollen from one flower to another, assisting in plant fertilization.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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