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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

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Crucifer flea beetle

Phyllotreta cruciferae

Crucifer flea beetle

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Crucifer flea beetle

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.

More information on Crucifer flea beetle

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