Mordellistena hexastigma facts for kids

Mordellistena hexastigma is a tiny beetle that belongs to a special group called Mordellistena. These beetles are part of the larger Mordellidae family, which is known for its unique, wedge-shaped bodies. This particular beetle was first officially described in 1891 by a scientist named George Charles Champion.

What is a Beetle?

Beetles are amazing insects that make up the largest group of living things on Earth! They belong to an order called Coleoptera, which means "sheathed wing." This name describes their most noticeable feature: hard, protective front wings called elytra. These elytra cover and protect their delicate flying wings underneath.

Beetle Features

Beetles have three main body parts:

• Head: This part has their eyes, antennae (for smelling and feeling), and mouthparts.
• Thorax: This is the middle section where their six legs and two pairs of wings are attached.
• Abdomen: This is the rear part of their body, which holds many of their organs.

Why are Beetles Important?

Beetles play many important roles in nature. Some beetles help break down dead plants and animals, cleaning up the environment. Others are pollinators, helping plants make seeds. Some even control pests by eating harmful insects.

The Mordellidae Family

The Mordellidae family, also known as tumbling flower beetles, are small to medium-sized beetles. They get their name "tumbling" from their quick, jerky movements. When disturbed, they often tumble or jump away.

Mordellistena Genus

Mordellistena is a large genus within the Mordellidae family. Beetles in this group are generally very small, often less than 8 millimeters long. They are usually found on flowers, where they feed on pollen.

What Makes Them Special?

Mordellistena beetles have a distinctive body shape. They have a pointed abdomen that sticks out past their wing covers. This unique shape helps them move quickly and tumble effectively. Their bodies are often covered in fine hairs.

Life Cycle of a Beetle

Like many insects, beetles go through a process called complete metamorphosis. This means they have four distinct stages in their life.

Egg Stage

The life of a beetle begins as a tiny egg. Female beetles lay their eggs in places where the larvae will have plenty of food. This could be in soil, on plants, or in decaying wood.

Larva Stage

After hatching, the egg becomes a larva. Larvae are often worm-like and spend their time eating and growing. They shed their skin multiple times as they get bigger. This stage is all about growth.

Pupa Stage

Once the larva is fully grown, it changes into a pupa. During this stage, the beetle doesn't eat or move much. Inside the pupa, amazing changes happen as the larva transforms into an adult beetle. It's like a resting period where a big transformation takes place.

Adult Stage

Finally, the adult beetle emerges from the pupa. Adult beetles are usually focused on finding a mate and reproducing. They also help spread pollen or control other insects, depending on their species.

Discovery of Mordellistena hexastigma

Mordellistena hexastigma was first described by George Charles Champion in 1891. Champion was a British entomologist, a scientist who studies insects. He spent many years studying beetles and described many new species. His work helped us understand the incredible diversity of insects around the world.

See also

In Spanish: Mordellistena hexastigma para niños