Mordella latithorax facts for kids

The Mordella latithorax is a fascinating type of beetle that belongs to the Mordella group. It's part of a larger family called Mordellidae, which are often known as "tumbling flower beetles." This particular species was first officially described in 1939.

What is a Beetle?

Beetles are an amazing group of insects. They make up the largest order of insects, called Coleoptera. This means there are more types of beetles than any other insect! You can find them almost everywhere on Earth, from forests to deserts.

Beetle Body Parts

Beetles have a tough outer shell, which is actually their front wings, called elytra. These elytra protect their delicate back wings and body. Underneath, they have their flying wings, which they use to zoom around. Like all insects, beetles have six legs, two antennae, and a body divided into three main parts:

• The head (where their eyes and mouth are)
• The thorax (where their legs and wings attach)
• The abdomen (the back part of their body)

Meet the Mordellidae Family

The Mordella latithorax belongs to the Mordellidae family. These beetles are often called "tumbling flower beetles" because of their unique shape and behavior.

Tumbling Flower Beetles

Mordellidae beetles have a very distinct body shape. They are usually wedge-shaped, meaning they are wider at the front and narrower at the back. Their heads often point downwards. They also have a special, pointed tip at the end of their abdomen. This unique shape helps them move quickly and tumble around, especially when they are on flowers.

Where Do They Live?

Many tumbling flower beetles, including species like Mordella latithorax, are found on flowers. They love to visit different kinds of blossoms to feed on pollen and nectar. This makes them important for pollination, just like bees!

Life Cycle of a Beetle

Like many insects, beetles go through a process called metamorphosis. This means they change a lot during their lives.

Four Stages of Life

A beetle's life cycle has four main stages:

• Egg: The life starts as a tiny egg, often laid on plants or in wood.
• Larva: After hatching, the egg becomes a larva. Larvae are often worm-like and spend their time eating and growing. They shed their skin several times as they get bigger.
• Pupa: Once the larva is big enough, it changes into a pupa. During this stage, the beetle doesn't move much, but amazing changes are happening inside as it transforms into an adult.
• Adult: Finally, the adult beetle emerges from the pupa. The adult is ready to find a mate and lay eggs, starting the cycle all over again.

Discovery of Mordella latithorax

The Mordella latithorax was first identified and described in 1939 by a scientist named Ray. When a new species is discovered, scientists give it a unique scientific name. This name helps everyone around the world know exactly which creature they are talking about. The name Mordella latithorax helps scientists classify it correctly within the animal kingdom.