[4] From 1871, American entomologist Charles Valentine Riley warned Europeans about the potential for an accidental infestation caused by the transportation of the beetle from America. [4], Late (4th) instar stage of larva, before pupation, L. decemlineata has a strong association with plants in the family Solanaceae, particularly those of the genus Solanum. This leaf beetle belongs to the subfamily Chrysomelinae of the family Chrysomelidae (order Coleoptera). Nymphs (juveniles) look more like crickets or grasshoppers. Here’s the good part: Most aphids can be dislodged with a heavy spray of water. The head has a triangular black spot and the thorax has irregular dark markings (Capinera 2001). CREDIT MUST READ: Joseph Berger, bugwood.org-->, Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org, Clemson University, USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series, Bugwood.org. Colorado potato beetle, (Leptinotarsa decemlineata), also called potato bug, insect pest that attacks the leaves of potato plants. Elytron punctation is coarse in irregular rows. Elytral punctation in regular rows from base to apex, vitta 3 and 4 connect at apex of elytron, space between black coloration; black spot on outer margin of the femur. This lovely lady (the Vanessa virginiensis) lives primarily in cool and flowery habitats. Japanese beetles like to gather in groups. Disclaimer | The evolution of the name Colorado potato beetle is curious because the beetle is believed to have originated in central Mexico, not Colorado. Thank you! Both types of insects are sometimes called “mosquito hawks,” because they use their superb flying skills to scoop up insects by the hundreds. Larvae may defoliate potato plants resulting in yield losses up to 100% if the damage occurs prior to tuber formation. Taxonomic Revision of the Genus. decemlineata. Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, bugwood.org,