Apple Flea Beetle – Altica foliacea

Apple Flea Beetle   Scientific Name: Altica foliaceae Common Name:  Apple flea beetle, flea beetle Appearance: Apple flea beetles have bronze oval bodies with metallic blue or green wings. They range in size from 3 to 9 mm, with female fleas generally larger than males. Their antennae are segmented, giving them a distinguished appearance. The long hind legs permit the fleas to jump on plants. Host Plants or Food: Apple flea beetles are herbivorous insects and feed mainly on ornamental plants such as Primrose. The larvae and adults both depend on plant feed. Territory: Throughout North America (New York, North Carolina, Florida, Texas) Mode of Damage: Apple flea beetles are basically leaf chewers, and they chew deep pits on the underside giving the leaves a lacy appearance. Habits and Life History: Apple flea beetles undergo dormancy during winters, suspending all reproductive activities. They are found under leaves, in the dirt, and in other protective sites during the colder months. The female beetles lay orange-colored eggs on Primrose leaves in large numbers. Eggs usually hatch during the Spring giving rise to larvae that feed on the leaves. Once the larvae have grown significantly, they move down to the ground, turn into pupae, and fly off as adults. They usually reproduce once a year, laying eggs once every season.