Description

Body length 5mm. A small, grey buff, leaf beetle marked with darker brown streaks. The front legs are reddish, the others black.

Habitat

Fields and crops. Can be a major pest of broad bean crops. First arrived in the UK in the 1990's. The adults feed on pollen and the larvae develop in the developing seeds of leguminous plants, particularly broad beans.

Status and distribution

Fairly common and widespread in the Midlands, and the south and east of England. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

All year.