Mordella variesignata facts for kids

The Mordella variesignata is a fascinating type of beetle. It belongs to the Mordella genus. This beetle is part of the Mordellidae family. Scientists first discovered and named it in 1936.

What is the Mordella variesignata Beetle?

The Mordella variesignata is a small insect. It is a member of the huge beetle group. Beetles are known for their hard outer wings. These wings protect their delicate flying wings. This specific beetle is part of the Tenebrionoidea superfamily. This group includes many different types of beetles.

Characteristics of Tumbling Flower Beetles

The Mordella variesignata belongs to the Mordellidae family. These beetles are often called "tumbling flower beetles." They get this name because of how they move. They can tumble and jump quickly. This helps them escape from danger. They are usually small to medium in size. Their bodies are often wedge-shaped. This shape helps them move around flowers.

Where Do These Beetles Live?

Most tumbling flower beetles live in warm places. They are found in many parts of the world. You can often spot them on flowers. They like areas with lots of plants. This provides them with food and shelter. They are an important part of their local ecosystems.

What Do Mordella Beetles Eat?

Adult Mordella beetles mainly feed on pollen. They also enjoy nectar from flowers. This makes them important pollinators. They help plants reproduce by carrying pollen. Their diet helps them get energy. It also helps them lay eggs.

Life Cycle of a Beetle

Like all beetles, Mordella variesignata goes through a complete life cycle. This means it has four main stages.

Egg Stage

The life cycle begins with an egg. Female beetles lay tiny eggs. They often place them on decaying wood. Sometimes they lay them on plant stems.

Larva Stage

After hatching, the egg becomes a larva. Larvae of tumbling flower beetles are usually worm-like. They often live inside dead wood. They also live in plant stems. They eat the wood or plant material. This stage is all about growing.

Pupa Stage

Once the larva is big enough, it changes into a pupa. The pupa stage is a resting period. During this time, the beetle transforms. It changes from a larva into an adult. This transformation happens inside a protective casing.

Adult Stage

Finally, the adult beetle emerges. The adult Mordella variesignata can fly. It will then find a mate. The adults reproduce, starting the cycle again. Their main job is to lay eggs. This ensures new generations of beetles.

Importance in Nature

Beetles like Mordella variesignata play a role in nature. They help pollinate flowers. This is vital for many plants. They also help break down dead wood. This returns nutrients to the soil. They are a small but important part of the natural world.

See also

In Spanish: Mordella variesignata para niños