This flea beetle belongs to the the genus Omophoita in the tribe Alticini, which are small, jumping leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae). Like other flea beetles, it has strongly developed hind legs that allow it to leap quickly and over considerable distances when threatened. Both adults and larvae feed on different parts of plants—adults on leaves and larvae on roots—but they are not considered major pests. I found this individual while walking on the outskirts of Nanegalito, a small village in the Mindo Valley, conveniently located just a short bus ride from Quito.





