Diet

• Adults: Herbivorous, feeding on leaves and tender plant tissues.

• The species is particularly associated with penstemon (Penstemon spp.) and has also been found on other flowering and woody vegetation.

• Larvae: The immature feeding habits are poorly documented.

Range

• Kuschelina tenuilineata occurs in Mexico and the southwestern United States, with its range extending into Guerrero.

• Zihuatanejo occurrence: Common to fairly common. It is regularly encountered in the Zihuatanejo area, particularly where suitable dry-forest and open vegetation occurs.

Habitat

• Found in desert scrub, dry woodland, canyon vegetation, grassland, forest edges and other relatively dry habitats.

• Adults may occur on flowering plants and foliage, particularly around suitable host plants.

• The species can be attracted to mercury-vapour and ultraviolet lights.

Size

• Adult length: approximately 6–7 mm (0.24–0.28 in).

• Body broadly oval and somewhat convex, with enlarged hind legs characteristic of flea beetles (Alticini).

• The elytra are typically pale yellow to cream-coloured with several narrow black longitudinal stripes, while the head and pronotum are reddish-orange.

• Considerable colour variation occurs, including individuals with reduced or less distinct dark striping.