Mordella proxima facts for kids

Mordella proxima is a type of beetle. It belongs to a group of beetles called Mordella, which are part of the Mordellidae family. This family is known for its unique body shape. Scientists first described this beetle in 1851.

What is Mordella proxima?

Mordella proxima is a small insect. Like all beetles, it has a hard outer shell. This shell protects its body. Beetles are the largest group of insects on Earth. They live in many different places.

Beetle Classification

Scientists group living things into categories. This helps us understand them better. Mordella proxima fits into these groups:

• Kingdom: Animalia (Animals) - It's an animal.
• Phylum: Arthropoda (Arthropods) - It has an exoskeleton and jointed legs.
• Class: Insecta (Insects) - It has six legs and a body divided into three parts.
• Order: Coleoptera (Beetles) - It's a beetle.
• Family: Mordellidae - This family is often called "tumbling flower beetles." They get this name because of how they move.
• Genus: Mordella - A smaller group within the family.
• Species: Mordella proxima - The specific type of beetle.

Discovery and Naming

This beetle was officially named in 1851. A scientist named Solier gave it the name Mordella proxima. Scientists give each species a unique two-part name. This helps everyone know exactly which creature they are talking about.

Characteristics of Mordellidae Beetles

Beetles in the Mordellidae family, like Mordella proxima, have some special features:

• Body Shape: They often have a wedge-shaped body. This means they are wider at the front and narrower at the back.
• Head: Their head is usually bent downwards. It is often hidden when you look from above.
• Movement: They are known for their quick, jerky movements. They can "tumble" or jump when disturbed. This is why they are called "tumbling flower beetles."
• Habitat: Many of these beetles live on flowers. They can be found in gardens, fields, and forests.

Life Cycle of a Beetle

Like all insects, Mordella proxima goes through a life cycle with different stages:

• Egg: The life cycle starts when an adult female beetle lays tiny eggs.
• Larva: The eggs hatch into larvae. Larvae are like small worms. They spend their time eating and growing.
• Pupa: After growing enough, the larva changes into a pupa. This is a resting stage. Inside the pupa, the beetle transforms.
• Adult: Finally, the adult beetle emerges from the pupa. The adult beetle can fly and reproduce.

See also

In Spanish: Mordella proxima para niños