Alder flea beetle

Alder flea beetle, Macrohaltica ambiens (= Altica ambiens), is a chrysomelid beetle which can skeletonize the leaves of its host trees. Both adults and larvae feed on the foliage. There is one generation a year. The adult beetles overwinter in the duff at the base of the plants. They emerge in the late spring/summer (mid-June in 2007), mate, and lay their eggs on the undersides of the leaves. The larvae appear shortly after, reaching maturity in August. The larvae then drop and pupate in pupal chambers in the soil below the leaf litter. The pupal stage lasts about 10 days. The adults emerge and feed on the leaves in August.

Alder is listed as the main host of this plant. Although management in landscapes is probably not required, nursery growers might approach alder flea beetle management similar to management of other skeletonizing flea beetles such as elm leaf beetle.

Web links:

One of the most informative websites on this beetle is the website, Alder leaf beetle management, from Forest Health Protection and State Forestry Organizations

Alder damaged by alder flea beetle - note damage starting at base of tree

Photo: Rosetta

Alder flea beetle damage

Photo: Rosetta

Alder flea beetle damage

Photo: Rosetta

Fully skeletonized leaves as a result of flea beetle feeding

Photo: Rosetta

Alder flea beetle larvae feeding on leaf underside

Photo: Rosetta

Closeup of alder flea beetle larva

Photo: Rosetta

Alder flea beetle adult

Photo: Rosetta

Page last modified 6/27/07