This collection of bumpy and colorful adult beetles comes from larvae that craft small, portable cases that hide and protect them.
Case-bearing Leaf Beetles come in a variety of species. Some are glossy black with red dots, others are matte black with orange dashes. Some have copper heads or red bodies with white markings. There are some that are completely black and highly textured, giving them a warty appearance. This subfamily showcases diverse colors and features. All of the beetles, though, have larvae that are small and worm-like, and these vulnerable larvae build protective cases for themselves out of debris nearby, including their own feces. Dark, tubular cases offer camouflage and some respite from the elements. The head and legs protrude from the opening of the case, and this allows it to walk. Many have a black head and an orange or red body. They may feed on decaying organic matter or plant leaves. Larvae tend to stay near a food source on the ground or among leaves.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Arthropoda
Class:Insecta
Order:Coleoptera
Family:Chrysomelidae
Genus:Various
Species:spp.
Identifying Information
Scientific Name: Various spp.
Other Name(s): Cylindrical Leaf Beetle
Category:
Beetle
Size (Adult; Length): 8mm to 10mm (0.31in to 0.39in)
Colors: black; red; orange; white
Descriptors: debris cave; black covering; worm-like; colorful; warts
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns. Grayed-out selections indicate that the subject in question has not been reported in that particular territory. U.S. states and Canadian provinces / territories are clickable to their respective bug listings.
Beetle Anatomy
1
Antennae: Beetles have a pair of antennae on the head used as sensors.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and mandibles (jaws).
3
Thorax: Holds the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Elytron: One of two wing cases on a Beetle that protects its wings (plural: elytra).
5
Wings: Appendages used for flying and kept under the elytra until needed.
6
Abdomen: Houses organs related to circulation, reproduction, and excretion.
7
Legs: Beetles have three pairs of legs located at the thorax, numbering six legs in all.
Colors: black; red; orange; white
