Mordella acuticauda facts for kids

Mordella acuticauda is a type of beetle that belongs to a group called Mordella. It's part of the Mordellidae family, which is also known as the "tumbling flower beetles." Scientists first discovered and named this particular beetle in 1891.

What is Mordella acuticauda?

Mordella acuticauda is a small insect. It's a member of the huge beetle order, which has more species than any other group of animals! This beetle is part of the Mordella genus, which means it shares many features with other beetles in that group.

Tumbling Flower Beetles

The family Mordellidae is often called "tumbling flower beetles." This name comes from how they move. When they are disturbed, these beetles often tumble or jump around quickly. They are usually found on flowers, where they feed on pollen.

Appearance of Mordella Beetles

Most beetles in the Mordella group, including Mordella acuticauda, have a special body shape. They are often wedge-shaped, meaning they are wider at the front and get narrower towards the back. They also have a pointed abdomen (the last part of their body) that sticks out. This unique shape helps them move easily among flower petals.

Size and Color

These beetles are usually quite small, often only a few millimeters long. Their colors can vary, but many are dark, like black or brown. Some might have patterns or metallic shines.

Where Do They Live?

Like most tumbling flower beetles, Mordella acuticauda likely lives in areas where there are plenty of flowers. This includes meadows, gardens, and forests. They are often found in warm or temperate climates around the world.

What Do They Eat?

Adult Mordella beetles mostly eat pollen and nectar from flowers. This makes them important for pollination, helping plants reproduce. The larvae (young beetles) of tumbling flower beetles usually live in decaying wood or plant stems. They feed on the decaying plant material or sometimes on fungi.

Life Cycle of a Beetle

Beetles, including Mordella acuticauda, go through a process called complete metamorphosis. This means they have four main life stages:

• Egg: The female beetle lays tiny eggs, often in or near suitable food sources for the larvae.
• Larva: After hatching, the larva is a worm-like stage that focuses on eating and growing.
• Pupa: The larva then changes into a pupa. During this stage, the beetle transforms inside a protective casing.
• Adult: Finally, the adult beetle emerges from the pupa. The adult's main job is to reproduce and lay new eggs.

Discovery and Importance

Mordella acuticauda was first described by a scientist named George Charles Champion in 1891. Discovering new species helps scientists understand the amazing variety of life on Earth. Beetles like Mordella acuticauda play a role in their ecosystems. As adults, they help pollinate flowers, which is vital for many plants. As larvae, they help break down dead plant material, returning nutrients to the soil.

See also

• Mordella acuticauda para niños (In Spanish)