Report on Crioceris sp. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) Infestation and Damage to Medicinal Plant Asparagus racemosus (Liliopsida: Asparagaceae) in New Delhi, India

This study reports a species of Crioceris infesting Asparagus racemosus Willd. The adults exhibit sexual dimorphism, with black males and yellowish-brown females bearing a distinct black spot on their elytra. Morphological and molecular analyses indicate a close relationship (95% genetic identity) with the Crioceris genus. Life cycle aspects, including hibernation during winter, spring emergence for mating and egg-laying, and polygynandrous mating behaviour, have been observed. Significant damage caused by Crioceris sp. to A. racemosus, including broken cladophylls, notched leaves, and defoliation, hindering plant growth, is reported.