Flavokans leaf beetle

Description:

These beetles are usually seen feeding and mating on Illinois bundleflower (Desmanthus illinoensis), like in the pictures. This beetle is a species of case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It is found in North America mainly in south central and Midwestern United States, where the plant I observed they liked to feed on is found. This beetle is similar to the clay colored leaf beetle, but is smaller, has orange on both elytron, and has a furry looking gray color on the underside of the beetle. This beetle also has orange legs and antennae, with black at the ends.

Habitat:

In a field, with lots of wildflower, Fort Worth, Texas.