Eucalyptus leaf beetles (Paropsisterna fastidiosa)

These small leaf beetles are possibly yet to be described.
They might end up being called Paropsisterna obovata.
About 9mm long. We have only found them in this small nature reserve.

comments (5)

Ferdy Christant

Lion

"They might end up being called Paropsisterna obovata."

Is there literature to suggest this? Just curious. Stunning find! Posted 9 years ago
1. Mark Ridgway
  
  Lion
  
  ...read on Ferdy :) so much is new or changing or yet to be done in Aus. Posted 9 years ago

Martin Lagerwey

Lion

David de Little is calling this Paropsisterna fastidiosa. Dr Chris Reid reported this to me so he must somewhat agree. This is supported only by his (de Little) unpublished keys to species of Tasmanian Paropsisterna. Mainland ones are much more complex and (therefore?) nobody is working on this group. Their antennae are black (I know) and it is very useful to get them in the photo if you can. See e Little's fastidiosa here; https://sites.google.com/site/insectsoftaschrysomeloidea/suborder-polyphaga/chrysomelidae-leaf-beetles/subfamily-chrysomelinae/genus-paropsisterna/paropsisterna-fastidiosa The larvae are the same as in Wicks Reserve. The antennae are black. Note from the link that the 2015 set are incorrect and a different species (in fact probably Ch8 ) based on the testaceous antennomeres. Posted 9 years ago
1. Mark Ridgway
  
  Lion
  
  :) Thanks so much Martin. You're da (beetle) man !! Posted 9 years ago
2. 1. Ferdy Christant
    
    Lion
    
    Thank you both, fascinating this specialism in beetles. Posted 9 years ago