This flea beetle, a member of the tribe Alticini in the family Chrysomelidae, was possibly the eight-spotted flea beetle (Omophoita cyanipennis). Flea beetles are known for their powerful jumping hind legs, with enlarged femora that contain a spring-like mechanism enabling them to leap away from danger. Neotropical flea beetles are often larger and far more vividly coloured than those found in Europe. Ever since I developed an interest in entomology, they have been among my favourite groups 🙂 I encountered this striking beetle during a visit to the protected forest of La Perla, a remnant of the vast rainforests that once covered the entire coast of Ecuador.