Leaf Beetles

Additional Insect Resources Types of Beetles Types of Insects

Leaf beetles (family Chrysomelidae), a large family of beetles, get their name from their dietary habits.

They are the vegetarians of the beetle world, with adults and larvae consuming leaves and other parts of plants, including trees.

As such, Chrysomelidae commonly get labeled as agriculture and garden pests. The diet of the Spotted Cucumber Beetle in the top picture extends beyond cucumbers, to include many crops and plants.

Other leaf beetle species have evolved to become consumers of a single plant or plant genus.

Leaf beetle species usually share the physical characteristics of having an oval, brightly colored body with antennae smaller than the body.

© 2009 Patricia A. Michaels