Leaf beetles (Paperback). This item is unavailable.Leaf beetles (Paperback)

Leaf beetles are one of the largest groups of beetles, with tens of thousands of species worldwide and around 280 in Britain. They belong mainly to the family Chrysomelidae, but also to two small closely related families, the Megalopodidae and Orsodacnidae. This book provides a comprehensive overview with detailed and accessible coverage of the natural history, ecology and biology of leaf beetles.

Topics cover the life history of leaf beetles, biology, their environment, natural enemies and interactions with humans. There is a thorough discussion about identification of British species, including detail on the juvenile stages (eggs, larvae, pupae) and a concise key to adults. A chapter is dedicated to study techniques and materials. The book is illustrated throughout with colour photographs and line drawings.

Leaf beetles is a vital resource for entomology students and educators, naturalists, nature conservationists, those involved in agriculture, horticulture and the management of stored produce.

"...a highly readable, informative style as one might expect from the current organiser of the UK's Chrysomelidae Recording Scheme. John Badmin, British Journal of Entomology & Natural History

"Benton's strength throughout is in good quality personal observation, related to sound scientific evidence concerning behaviour and autecology. There are few authors so adept at gripping the attention through some quite difficult patterns of thought. The chapters on Bee lives; Cuckoos in the nest and Bees and flowers give anyone something to work at - including source references. The book is worth its modest cost for these chapters alone." - Mike Edwards, Antenna

"...extensive descriptions about collecting, studying lifestyle and environment." - Ron Beenen, Entomologische Berichten

"...a book that is well structured and provides a very useful and detailed introduction to leaf beetles." Peter Hodge, AES Bulletin

Dave Hubble is a freelance ecologist. He is the organiser of the UK's Chrysomelidae Recording Scheme and recently wrote the AIDGAP key to UK species. He also teaches Environmental Science at the Open University. Dave's blog can be found at davehubbleecology.blogspot.co.uk