Potato flea beetles (Epitrix spp.) are native to North America and can cause serious damage to potato crops. The adults feed on foliage producing characteristic “shot-hole” appearance to leaves, while larvae feed on roots and tubers (Fig. 1). It is this larval damage to the tubers that has a major impact on the appearance and quality of potatoes, which may render them unmarketable.
Figure 1. Typical “shot-hole” feeding damage to potato leaves by adults (left) and furrowed tubers by larvae of the potato flea beetle (
Epitrix spp.).(right)
©Catherine Chatot, Germicopa SAS, France
Recently, two Epitrix species have been recorded in Portugal and Spain, from which ware potatoes may be imported into Northern Ireland. While potato yields in Portugal have been largely unaffected, the economic value of the potatoes has been reduced. In addition, the damage caused by larval feeding may also affect tuber storage capability.
Potato flea beetles complete their development on plants belonging to the family Solanaceae, but the adults may feed on a wide range of unrelated plants.
Adult Epitrix species are similar in appearance, being dark brown/black (1.5 -2.0mm) with a characteristic enlarged femur on each of its hind legs (Fig. 2). This enables them to jump, particularly when disturbed.
Figure 2a & b . Adult potato flea beetles A
E. cucumeris B
E. similaris N.B.enlarged femur.
© Jean-Francois Germain, LPNV Montpellier
It is essential to avoid introduction of this pest and potato growers and processors must be vigilant to ensure early detection. If you notice any of the symptoms above or find a suspect beetle, please report the finding to your local Department of Agriculture and Rural Development office or the address above.
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