flea beetle

noun

: any of a subfamily (Alticinae, especially genera Alticia and Epitrix) of small chrysomelid beetles with legs adapted for leaping that feed on foliage and include some that are agricultural pests

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

While not widespread garden pests because many of our other vegetables don’t suit them, this particular flea beetle can still hamper the productivity of callaloo. —Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 16 Feb. 2023

Before using any pesticide, read the label and ensure that use of the compound is registered for alder flea beetle control. —oregonlive, 3 Sep. 2022

One problem Burgundy producers face is that the European Union has banned an insecticide long used to combat the black flea beetle, a scourge. —New York Times, 14 July 2022

Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. —oregonlive, 1 May 2022

Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. —oregonlive, 1 May 2022

Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. —oregonlive, 1 May 2022

Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. —oregonlive, 1 May 2022

Tiny holes in foliage and shiny, black beetles on tomato, beets, radishes, and potato indicate flea beetle attack. —oregonlive, 1 May 2022

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Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above