Name a speciesBiodiversityThe extremely rare leaf beetle: Cryptocephalus punctiger
What common name would you give the Cryptocephalus punctiger? Enter our competition by posting your ideas in the comments below, explaining why you've chosen your name. Read our guidance before postingDescription
Cryptocephalus punctiger has a body length of 2.4-2.9mm. It is black in colour, usually with a weak but noticeable blueish metal shine.
Habitat
Associated with birch and goat willow trees, the larvae being in cases and free-living on the leaves. Adult beetles come out in June-July.
Ecology
Their generally small size, coupled with a tendency to drop to the floor easily when disturbed, renders them difficult to find. They are probably most easily located by sweeping with nets, or through careful searching of suitable foliage by eye (probably the better method for birch-feeding species)
Status
Cryptocephalus leaf beetles are amongst some of the most interesting and rarest of leaf beetles.
Distribution
Only about four UK sites, with the Sussex populations being under rapid decline.
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