Plagiosterna aenea

Alternative names
Chrysomela aenea
Description

6.5 to 8 mm. Usually metallic or iridescent green, occasionally blue or brassy. 

Similar Species

Very similar to some other Chrysomelidae species, particularly Chrysolina herbacea.

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Good quality close up photographs required. Detailed examination of the specimen may be necessary. The foodplant can be a useful guide to species.

Habitat

Associated with Alder and usually found in Alder stands by watercourses and in damp woodlands.

When to see it

Mid-April to late August.

Life History

Adults hibernate (sometimes in moss) from late August to mid-April.

UK Status

Widespread, but local in Britain and less common in the south. 

VC55 Status

Rare in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2020+ | 2015-2019 | pre-2015

UK Map

Species profile

Species group:
Beetles
Kingdom:
Animalia
Order:
Coleoptera
Family:
Chrysomelidae
Records on NatureSpot:
1
First record:
30/07/2021 (Nicholls, David)
Last record:
30/07/2021 (Nicholls, David)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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