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Aerarium Leaf Beetle
Paropsisterna octolineata
-37.8925, 145.313
Field Notes
Description:
This beetle was about 15mm long, black with thin red linear stripes on its elytra. A broad thorax also had black and red colours. Legs showed a bi-lobed white-lined pads, typical to this species of chrysomelid beetle.
The elytra were buckled, exposing the abdomen and some of the hind wings. there appeared to be no breaks or tears. Thorax and head looked intact and the beetle was scuttling around at a normal pace.
Habitat:
Stringy bark eucalyptus tree
Notes:
I am unsure if this beetle had just come out of its pupa with its elytra and wings yet to fully spread out or, whether it was attacked by a bird. Also, thought of a possible deformity ??. Any assistance with this would be greatly appreciated.
The beetle was moving quite fast up the tree and so, made it difficult to study it any better. I am posting all available photos and hopefully find it again for better shots !
This Chrysomelid beetle was larger than both Paropsis and Paropsisterna leaf beetles seen on the gum trees here. Hopefully, I will be able to find more of these beautiful beetles around this season...
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