Cornel flea beetle

The Cornel flea beetle (Altica corni) is a species of leaf beetle belonging to the family Chrysomelidae within the order Coleoptera. As the scientific name suggests, this insect is specifically associated with plants of the genus Cornus, commonly known as dogwood. Its ability to jump when disturbed is a hallmark of the flea beetle subfamily.

This pest primarily attacks various species of dogwood. While it is rarely a threat to other crops, its impact on ornamental and fruiting dogwood shrubs can be significant. High pest density often leads to aesthetic damage and physiological stress in affected plants, making early detection crucial for maintaining healthy shrubs in landscape and orchard environments.

The life cycle of the beetle is synchronized with the growth stages of its host plant. Adult beetles overwinter in leaf litter, debris, or topsoil near the base of the host plants. In early spring, they emerge to feed on the emerging foliage. Eggs are laid on the undersides of leaves, and the larvae that hatch feed gregariously, following a developmental path typical of many Altica species.

The damage caused by the Cornel flea beetle manifests as irregular holes in the leaves, often resulting in severe skeletonization. As the larvae and adults feed on the parenchyma, the remaining vascular tissue gives the leaf a lacy appearance. Persistent feeding can lead to leaf yellowing, necrosis, and premature leaf drop, which stunts the plant's seasonal growth and reduces the overall yield.

Integrated pest management (IPM) is recommended for controlling this insect. Cultural practices, such as removing and destroying fallen leaves under the bushes during late autumn, help reduce the number of overwintering adults. In cases of severe infestation, targeted application of insecticides should be timed with the period of larval activity to prevent economic damage to the crop.