Over the last 5 to 10 years, a small, brown beetle known as the ‘Celtis Leaf Beetle’ (Menippus cynicus) has started causing noticeable damage to the young leaves of the highly invasive introduced weed-tree Chinese Celtis (Celtis sinensis) around South-East Queensland.

The Celtis Leaf Beetle is native to coastal, central Queensland and we are unsure whether it has moved by itself to south-east Queensland, or if it was transported by people.  

Regardless, it is here in our catchment now and we can only hope that it reduces the vigour of Chinese Celtis!

Photo courtesy of BioSecurity Qld