Mordella nana facts for kids

Mordella nana is a tiny type of beetle that belongs to a group called Mordella. It's part of the Mordellidae family, which are often called "tumbling flower beetles." Scientists first discovered and named this beetle in 1863.

What is a Beetle?

Beetles are a huge group of insects. They have hard front wings that protect their softer flying wings underneath. These hard wings are called elytra. Beetles can be found almost everywhere on Earth, from forests to deserts. They come in many shapes, sizes, and colors.

The Mordellidae Family

The Mordellidae family, which Mordella nana belongs to, is known for its unique body shape. These beetles often have a hump-backed body and a pointed tail. They are sometimes called "tumbling flower beetles" because they are very active and can quickly tumble or jump when disturbed.

Where Do They Live?

Most beetles in the Mordellidae family, including Mordella nana, are found on flowers. They like to live in places where there are lots of plants and flowers, like meadows, gardens, and forests. They are often seen during the daytime, especially when the sun is out.

What Do They Eat?

Mordella nana and other tumbling flower beetles usually feed on pollen and nectar from flowers. This makes them important for pollination, helping plants reproduce. They use their mouthparts to collect the tiny pollen grains and sweet nectar.

Life Cycle of a Beetle

Like many insects, Mordella nana goes through a complete metamorphosis. This means it changes a lot during its life.

Egg Stage

The life cycle starts when an adult female beetle lays tiny eggs. She usually places them on plants or in decaying wood, depending on the specific beetle species.

Larva Stage

After the eggs hatch, a larva emerges. Larvae of Mordellidae beetles are often worm-like and live inside decaying wood or plant stems. They spend their time eating and growing, shedding their skin several times as they get bigger.

Pupa Stage

Once the larva is fully grown, it changes into a pupa. During this stage, the beetle doesn't move much, but amazing changes are happening inside. The larva's body transforms into the adult beetle's shape.

Adult Stage

Finally, the adult beetle emerges from the pupa. This is the stage where Mordella nana looks like the beetle you might see on a flower. Adults focus on finding food and reproducing to start the cycle all over again.

Interesting Facts About Mordella nana

• Mordella nana is a relatively small beetle, as its name "nana" (meaning dwarf or small) suggests.
• Its discovery in 1863 by scientists Fairmaire and Germain helped us learn more about the diversity of beetles in the world.
• These beetles are important parts of their ecosystems because they help pollinate flowers and are a food source for other animals.

See also

In Spanish: Mordella nana para niños