Elm leaf beetle

Scientific name: Pyrrhalta luteola Muller
(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

Facts: Elm leaf beetle adults are about 1/4 inch long, overall yellow to brownish-green in body color, and marked with black spots on the head and thorax, and broad black stripes following the outer wing cover (elytra) margins. Larvae grow to about ½ inch and are yellowish with black spots and broad stripes along the sides. Pupae are 1/4 inch long and are bright orange-yellow with scattered black bristles.

This insect is a foliage-feeding pest on elms especially in the High Plains.

Photo credit: M. Merchant