Featured speciesText © K. Reißmann, T. Hörren, M. Stern, F. Bötzl and C. Benisch
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03.09.2021
Lilioceris merdigera (L., 1758)
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The 6 to 8 mm large leaf beetle Lilioceris merdigera (family Chrysomelidae) is one of three species of the genus currently occurring in Germany. It can be distinguished from the similar sister species Lilioceris lilii by the red head and legs. The species is of palearctic distribution. It can be found from May to September in forests, gardens and parks. Both beetles and larvae feed on the leaves of plants from the lily and leek family, e.g. Lily of the Valley, Turk's cap lily as well as ramsons, onion and garlic. In cultures of the latter it can become a pest. When disturbed, the beetles can produce chirping sounds by means of an abdominal stridulatory apparatus. The larvae cover themselves with a protective case of their own excrements. In Germany, Liliceris merdigera is everywhere present and is not endangered. (CB)
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