flea beetle

flea beetle

n. Any of various small chrysomelid beetles of the tribe Alticini that have large hind legs which enable them to jump long distances and that feed on ornamental plants, crops, and weeds.

flea beetle

n (Animals) any small common beetle of the genera Phyllotreta, Chalcoides, etc, having enlarged hind legs and capable of jumping: family Chrysomelidae. The larvae of many species are very destructive to turnips and other cruciferous vegetables

flea′ bee`tle

n. any of numerous tiny leaf beetles of the subfamily Alticinae, having enlarged hind legs adapted for jumping. [1835–45]

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

flea beetle - any small leaf beetle having enlarged hind legs and capable of jumpingchrysomelid, leaf beetle - brightly colored beetle that feeds on plant leaves; larvae infest roots and stems