Cassidinae

a subfamily of beetles of the family Chrysomelidae (leaf beetles). The flat body is usually 4–20 mm long (some individuals reach a length of 10 mm in the USSR). The edges of the pronotum and elytra protrude to the sides, forming a shield that covers the top of the head and body (hence the common name of tortoise beetle for several species). The coloration varies and sometimes has a metallic or pearly cast. There are about 1,000 herbivorous species, distributed mainly in the tropics and subtropics. The USSR has 60 species. Some, for example, Cassida nebulosa, are agricultural pests. Adult beetles and the light green larvae, which carry their excrement on their backs, are found on the leaves of beet plants.