Yellowmargined Leaf Beetle, Microtheca ochroloma
(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

The yellowmargined leaf beetle is a native of South America but is now distributed along the Gulf Coast from Florida to Louisiana. Less than one month is required for the life cycle to be completed and it is believed that more than one generation may occur per year. Eggs are bright orange and elongated. The larva is yellowish-brown and is covered with a fine layer of hairs. Larvae have a dark head capsule that is brown or black. Pupation occurs in a net-like case on plant foliage or in plant debris on the soil surface. The adult is dark bronze or black but the edges of the wing covers are yellow, hence the name "yellowmargined" leaf beetle.

Host plants that are commonly infested are in the family Cruciferae. Vegetable crops that are damaged include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, mizuna, mustard, radish, turnip, and watercress. Damage is caused by the adult and larva feeding on foliage, and is a pest only in organic or home garden plantings. This insect is generally considered to be a minor pest and does not require control except on an occasional plant or planting, or under organic production. Foliar insecticides may be applied to suppress high populations.

Images

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Yellowmargined leaf beetle, Microtheca ochroloma, adult.
(Photographer: J. Castner, University of Florida) 		Click to access Display and Print quality images.


Yellowmargined leaf beetle, Microtheca ochroloma, pupae
in cocoons.
(Photographer: J. Castner, University of Florida) 		Click to access Display and Print quality images.


Yellowmargined leaf beetle, Microtheca ochroloma, damage
to leaf.
(Photographer: J. Castner, University of Florida) 		Click to access Display and Print quality images.


Yellowmargined leaf beetle, Microtheca ochroloma, eggs.
(Photographer: J. Castner, University of Florida) 		Click to access Display and Print quality images.


Yellowmargined leaf beetle, Microtheca ochroloma, larva.
(Photographer: J. Castner, University of Florida) 		Click to access Display and Print quality images.


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