Leaf beetles

Most leaf beetles are small – less than 1.2 cm long – but a few species can reach 2 cm. Their elytra (hardened wings) are often smooth and shiny, but occasionally have distinctive shapes or may be either ridged or pitted. They come in a variety of colours.

The legs are a distinguishing characteristic of these insects: the final heart-shaped segment, just before the claw, is bilobed. This segment is covered with special hairs that allow the beetles to walk along waxy stems and leaves.