Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > Garden Pests > Beetles, bugs, ants, and other insects without obvious wings - Under 1/4 inch long > Crucifer flea beetle

Crucifer flea beetle

Phyllotreta cruciferae

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Roy Ellis

Description: 1/8 - 1/6 inch long. Oval-shaped, shiny blue-black body with black legs(It can be challenging to distinguish similarly colored flea beetles).

Where/When: Feeds on radishes, broccoli, cabbage, turnips, eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, and melons. Active from May through June and August through September.

Significance: Causes feeding damage (small, round, irregular holes) primarily to foliage. Low to moderate numbers usually do not impact plant health. High numbers can result in wilted and stunted plants.

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