Epitrix atropae

Epitrix atropae

Description

The dark elytra of this small (3mm) species usually have pairs of paler bronze patches. As with other 'flea' beetles it has swollen rear femora.

Similar Species

The small size of this beetles brings a photographic challenge but knowing the food plant it is found on is very helpful.

Identification difficulty
Habitat

Areas where the host plants are found.

When to see it

Spring and summer.

Life History

This flea beetle is usually associated with Deadly Nightshade, the larvae feeding on the roots and the adults on the leaves, but it sometimes uses the related plants, Henbane, Thorn-apple and Duke of Argyll's Tea Plant.

UK Status

It is considered nationally scarce, but appears to be often found where the main food plant grows. Most records are from the south eastern corner of Britain.

VC55 Status

It is uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutlandt. There were only 7 VC55 records for this species up to March 2015.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

No additional images available for this species.

All NatureSpot records