Leaf Beetles (Chrysomelidae)

The Leaf Beetles make up a very large beetle family. World wide over 3,500 species are known. In Holland there are over 300 species present. Probably about the same number will be found in Britain. Most leaf beetles are quite small, some are medium sized beetles. Many species do have striking colours once adult. Most larvae are active and many look like a small caterpillar. Both larvae and adults feed on plants. The leaves are usually eaten, hence the name of the family. Some species are dreaded in agriculture, such as the Colorado Potato Beetle. Others are feared by gardeners, such as the Lilly Beetle. The so-called Flea Beetles actually are Leaf Beetles too. They are very tiny (2 to 4 mm) and often jump about like fleas. Appearing in great numbers some species are harmful to flowers and crops as well. Leaf Beetles can be found in every garden, no matter how small. The big species are often seen easily, but the many small species normally go about unnoticed.