Mecodema moniliferum facts for kids
Mecodema moniliferum is a medium-sized ground beetle found only in the South Island of New Zealand. This special beetle belongs to a group called the curvidens group. You can find it living in the unique braided river systems of the South Island.
Quick facts for kids Mecodema moniliferum |
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| Dorsal view of specimen | |
| Scientific classification | |
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Broscini
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M. moniliferum
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| Mecodema moniliferum (Bates, 1867)
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What Makes This Beetle Special?
Scientists can tell Mecodema moniliferum apart from other Mecodema beetles by a few key features:
- It has many small, stiff hairs on the underside of its body.
- The hard wing covers, called elytra, have unique patterns of small dents. These dents are found at the front and sides of the elytra.
Appearance and Size
This beetle is about 1.5 to 2 centimeters long. Its body can be a dull reddish-brown or even matte black. It has a tough, hard outer shell.
Where It Lives
Mecodema moniliferum is one of only three types of Mecodema beetles that are specially adapted to live in the braided river systems. These unique rivers are found in the Canterbury and Otago regions of New Zealand's South Island. The beetles thrive in these environments.
See Also
- In Spanish: Mecodema moniliferum para niños
