Mordellistena carinata facts for kids

Mordellistena carinata is a tiny beetle. It belongs to a group of beetles called Mordellistena, which are part of the larger Mordellidae family. Scientists first described this particular beetle in 1930.

What is a Beetle?

Beetles are a type of insect. They are known for their hard outer wings. These wings protect their softer flying wings underneath. Beetles make up the largest group of insects on Earth. There are hundreds of thousands of different kinds!

Beetle Body Parts

Like all insects, beetles have three main body parts. These are the head, the thorax, and the abdomen. Their head has antennae for feeling and smelling. The thorax is where their legs and wings attach. The abdomen holds their digestive organs.

Most beetles have two pairs of wings. The front pair is hard and shell-like. They are called elytra. The elytra cover and protect the delicate hind wings. These hind wings are used for flying.

The Amazing Life Cycle of Beetles

Beetles go through a complete change in their life. This process is called metamorphosis. It has four main stages:

• Egg: A female beetle lays tiny eggs.
• Larva: The eggs hatch into larvae. These often look like worms or grubs. They spend their time eating and growing.
• Pupa: After growing enough, the larva changes into a pupa. During this stage, the beetle transforms inside a protective casing.
• Adult: Finally, the adult beetle emerges from the pupa. It is ready to find a mate and lay its own eggs.

The Mordellidae Family

Mordellistena carinata is part of the Mordellidae family. These beetles are often called "tumbling flower beetles." They get this name because they are often found on flowers. They also have a unique way of moving. If disturbed, they might tumble or jump away.

What Makes Them Special?

Tumbling flower beetles are usually small. They have a distinctive body shape. Their bodies are often wedge-shaped. They also have a pointed abdomen. This pointed end helps them move around in tight spaces.

Where Do They Live?

Beetles live in almost every habitat on Earth. They can be found in forests, deserts, and even in water. The specific habitat of Mordellistena carinata would depend on its exact location. Many tumbling flower beetles live on plants and flowers. They feed on pollen and nectar.

Why Are Beetles Important?

Beetles play many important roles in nature. Some beetles help break down dead plants and animals. This returns nutrients to the soil. Other beetles pollinate flowers. This helps plants make seeds. Some beetles even help control pests by eating other insects.

See also

In Spanish: Mordellistena para niños