Lantana Leaf Beetle

Distribution

O. scabripennis occurs naturally from Mexico to Nicaragua. The insect was first released in Australia in 1966. It has been introduced to some countries in Asia and Africa.

Behavior

• Adults feed on the upper surfaces of leaves, leaving small scarification marks.
• Eggs are laid on the edge of adult feeding scars.
• Larvae feed in middle leaf layers, causing dark blotches.
• Pupation occurs in the leaves.
• Damaged leaves can be shed, causing plants to become stunted and produce fewer flowers and seeds.
• Development from egg to adult takes 34–45 days.
• Adults live for 6–9 months, but may enter a period of inactivity during winter when conditions are unfavourable.