General Description

Typical leaf eating beetle semi-circular shape. The characteristic of this entire family are the enlarged second last tarsal (lower leg) segments - these are large and have two lobes. Colours and patterns vary between species.

Biology

Eucalyptus Leaf Beetles feed on eucalypt leaves. Their larvae feed on new growth, consuming the entire leaf, but the adults prefer older leaves and make crescent shape holes along the edges. Eggs are laid onto twigs. Each species lays eggs in a distinctive pattern. Larvae release a defensive liquid of hydrogen cyanide and eucalyptus oil if threatened. When the larvae are fully developed they move down the tree and pupate in the soil.

Distribution

Across the south-eastern and south-western corners of Australia.

Habitat

Open eucalypt forests.

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