A small leaf beetle species native to North America, specialized in feeding on milkweed plants with distinctive coloration and ecological adaptation.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Primarily found in wetland and riparian ecosystems, particularly areas with milkweed (Asclepias) plant populations across temperate regions of North America
Ecological Role
Important herbivore in milkweed ecosystems, contributes to plant population dynamics and serves as prey for predatory insects and birds
Morphology
SKIN COATBright warning coloration of orange and black, indicating potential chemical defense mechanisms
LIMBS WINGSSix legs with specialized tarsi for climbing plant stems, capable of short flight using elytra and membranous hindwings
HEAD SENSORYWell-developed antennae, compound eyes adapted for detecting plant hosts and environmental cues
BODY STRUCTURESmall beetle, typically 8-12 mm in length, with robust exoskeleton and compact body design
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Matthew Lindsey
