Alder Leaf Beetle - Agelastica alni

Agelastica alni is a distinctive, dark metallic blue coloured species measuring around 7mm in length. It feeds mainly on Alder but is occasionally found on other deciduous trees such as Beech, Hazel and Hornbeam. The black larvae can be found in July and August when they can cause significant leaf damage.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed.

Mainly found on Alder.

Late spring to autumn.

It overwinters as adults which emerge in the spring, sometimes in large numbers.

Once a rare beetle which was previously believed to be extinct in the UK. However, there have been an increasing number of recent records and the true status of Agelastica alni, is currently unknown - it has RDB K (Insufficiently known) status.

Rare in Leicestershire and Rutland but probably increasing in our area.