PEST
 
   NAME
     Flea Beetle (General)
     Various Flea Beetle Species
 
   ORDER
     Coleoptera

Description of the Pest
Adults beetles are small up to 4mm long and may be blue, brown, yellow or black with shiny wing covers. They have chewing mouth parts and normally long thick antenna. The hind legs are used for jumping, hence the description as a “flea beetle” and quickly jump when disturbed.

The Potato Flea Beetle (Epitrix cucumeris) is small and black eating small holes in young leaves.

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
Larvae appear from summer through autumn and originated in Europe. They spread by flying assisted by the wind or are transported on infested plant material.

Life Cycle
These insects have a Holometabolous life cycle, ie. When metamorphosis is observed during the pupal stage.

Period of Activity
During the warmer months of the year.

Damage Caused
Larvae emerge in the stems of the plants. Shoot tips and the upper surfaces of leaves are holed by feeding adults and, as the leaves mature, the holes become enlarged, giving the plant a damaged appearance. Young plants and seedlings may be killed during heavy infestations.

Susceptible Plants
Many plants are susceptible, including hibiscus, dahlias, grapevines, avocados, potatoes, sweet potatoes, rhubarb, and various weed species.  

Alnus species are attacked by the Alder Flea Beetle (Altica Ambiens) which is a tiny green-blue beetle with brown lava that has a black head, and feeds on the leaves from spring to summer.

Cheiranthus species may be attacked by the Western Striped Flea Beetle (Phyllotreta ramose) which is black with a yellowish stripe down each wing cover and feeds on the leaves.

Myosotis and Primula species are attacked by the Potato Flea Beetle.

Turf Grass are susceptible to attack by the Flea Beetle (Chaetocnema australica), which is a dark coloured adult with strong rear legs for jumping and grows to 3mm long. Damaged areas have a brown wilted appearance but the damage is usually minor and is found during the warmer months.

Cultural Control
Sticky traps may be used. 

Biological Control
None known.

Chemical Control
Spray with a contact chemical such as Carbaryl during infestations.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.