Lachnaia is a genus of brightly colored (yellow, orange, red with black spots) leaf beetles in the Chrysomelidae family found in Europe and North Africa. Often called "ant-nest beetles," their larvae live in ant nests (e.g., Formica rufa), while adults feed on plants like Oaks (Quercus) and Hazels (Corylus).
Here are key facts about the Lachnaia genus:
Classification: They belong to the tribe Clytrini within the subfamily Cryptocephalinae.
Appearance: They have a strong, convex body, usually 6.5–10 mm long, with elytra (wing covers) frequently featuring black spots.
Defensive Mechanism: Their bright, contrasting colors are a form of aposematism, warning predators of their toxicity or unpalatability.
Habitat: Commonly found in meadows, grasslands, and areas with rich vegetation.
Feeding Behavior: Adults are herbivorous, often feeding on foliage of Rosaceae and Fagaceae. They can cause minor damage to young trees in nurseries, creating irregular holes in leaves.
Lifecycle & Symbiosis: They are closely associated with ants
(Myrmecophily). Larvae live inside ant nests, feeding on vegetable refuse.
Activity Period: Adults are typically active in the spring and early summer.
Species Examples: Includes Lachnaia italica, Lachnaia sexpunctata, Lachnaia cylindrica, and Lachnaia tristigma.
