Includes
Epitrix spp.
Phyllotreta cruciferae
Pest description and crop damage Flea beetle adults are metallic greenish brown to black in color and from 0.06 to 0.12 inch long. They derive their name from their well-developed hind legs; when disturbed, they jump like fleas. The larvae live in the soil, are slender, whitish, and about 0.25 inch long when mature. Adult beetles chew small holes in leaves, giving them a sievelike appearance. The cotyledons of emerging seedlings are especially susceptible to damage. Larvae feed on underground parts of the plant. High populations of flea beetles feeding on seedling plants can result in stand loss. Foliar damage to mature plants is not considered to be damaging economically. Flea beetles contribute to the spread of various plant diseases.
Biology and life history Most flea beetle species have similar life cycles. Adults overwinter in trash around field margins. They become active in late March through May. Flea beetles lay their very small eggs in May in the soil around the plant, on the leaves, or in cavities hollowed out in stems. The larvae feed on the foliage, mine the leaves, or attack the roots, depending on the species, usually from June to mid July, when pupation in the soil occurs. Adults emerge from July through early September and feed a short time before overwintering in trash around field margins. Depending on the species, there are one or two generations each year.