Golden Tortoise Beetle, Charidotella (=Metriona) bicolor (Fabricius) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences. This document provides an overview of the golden tortoise beetle, Charidotella bicolor, including its distribution, life cycle, and description. Found primarily in eastern North America, this beetle is known for its distinctive golden metallic color. The article details the beetle's life stages, from egg to adult, and its feeding habits on plants in the Convolvulaceae family. It also discusses natural enemies and management strategies, emphasizing that while the beetle can cause defoliation, it is rarely abundant enough to be considered a significant pest.