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Terrestrial Invertebrates
Galeruca laticollis
Nomenclature
Species:
Galeruca laticollis
Usage:
valid
SUMMARY
Thought to be extinct in Britain for many years, this leaf beetle was discovered at Wheatfen Broad reserve in 1996. This is still the only known British site and, although it is currently present here in good numbers, it is vulnerable to extinction through adverse local events or conditions. Adults feed on thistles and are most often seen in September, while larvae feed on Common Meadow-rue in late spring and are much more numerous and widespread than the adults. The reasons for the beetle's absence from other apparently similar Broadland sites have not been identified and further research into its life cucle and biology is required. The Wheatfen site is managed to maintain and encourage the two foodplants.
Text: Martin Collier