Flea Beetle

Striped Flea Beetle (Phyllotreta)

Habitat: common throughout the eastern and Pacific areas of the U.S

Size: 1.5 to 2.5 mm long

Predators/Prey: They like to eat foliage of young plants. Striped flea beetles infest many crucifers but prefer mustard, turnip, radish, and related weeds.

Lifespan: There are usually 1 to 2 generations per year. Larvae pass through three instars and complete their development in 25 to 34 days by forming small earthen puparium. The pupal stage lasts for about seven to nine days, usually in early to mid-July.

Interesting facts: Striped flea beetles may act as vectors of plant disease.

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