Geodorcus philpotti facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Geodorcus philpotti |
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|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Geodorcus
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| Species: |
philpotti
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| Synonyms | |
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Lissotes philpotti Broun, 1914 |
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The Geodorcus philpotti is a large, flightless stag beetle found only in New Zealand. Being "flightless" means it cannot fly, unlike most beetles. It belongs to the Lucanidae family, which is known for the large, antler-like jaws (called mandibles) that male beetles often have.
This special beetle was named by a scientist named Thomas Broun. He named it after Mr. A. Philpott, who first found it near Hump Ridge, close to Invercargill. When we say it is "endemic" to New Zealand, it means this beetle naturally lives nowhere else in the world.
What Does It Look Like?
The Geodorcus philpotti is a fascinating insect. Male beetles, including their impressive mandibles, can be quite large. They measure about 20.5 to 29 millimeters long. To give you an idea, that's roughly the length of two to three standard paper clips lined up.
Female beetles are a bit smaller, measuring between 17.0 and 23.6 millimeters. Both male and female beetles have a body covering called an exoskeleton. This exoskeleton can look dull or slightly shiny. Their wing covers, known as elytra, have clear ridges on them. These ridges give the beetle a unique texture.
Where Does It Live?
This unique beetle lives in the southwestern part of New Zealand's South Island. You can find it from the coast, near the Hump Ridge Track, all the way up into the mountains. It can live at high altitudes, up to 1400 meters (about 4,600 feet) above sea level.
The furthest north this beetle has been found is near the Grebe River, which is close to Lake Manapouri. This shows that it prefers the cooler, more rugged environments of the South Island.
Its Home and Habits
The Geodorcus philpotti is often found living under plants called Astelia. These are native New Zealand plants that grow in clumps. The beetles use these plants for shelter and protection.
Scientists have also seen these beetles crawling on other plants at night. This suggests they are more active after the sun goes down. They likely search for food or mates during the nighttime hours.
