Mordellistena teneriffensis facts for kids

Mordellistena teneriffensis is a fascinating type of beetle. It belongs to a group of beetles called Mordellistena, which are part of the larger Mordellidae family. This particular species was first described by a scientist named Ermisch in 1965.

These beetles are often quite small. They are known for their unique body shape and how they move.

What is a Beetle?

Beetles are a huge group of insects. They make up about 25% of all known animal life forms! Beetles have hard front wings called elytra. These wings protect their delicate flying wings underneath. They also protect their bodies.

Beetles can be found almost everywhere on Earth. They live in many different places. You can find them in forests, deserts, and even in water. They play many important roles in nature. Some beetles help break down dead plants. Others eat pests that harm crops.

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. It also has strong mouthparts for chewing.

The thorax is the middle part. It holds the legs and wings. Most beetles have six legs. The abdomen is the last part. It contains the beetle's organs.

The Mordellidae Family

Mordellistena teneriffensis is part of the Mordellidae family. These beetles are often called "tumbling flower beetles." This name comes from their unique shape and behavior. They have a humpbacked body. Their head points downwards. They also have a pointed abdomen.

These beetles are very active. They can move quickly. When disturbed, they often tumble or jump. This helps them escape from danger. They are usually found on flowers.

Where Do They Live?

Many Mordellidae beetles live on flowers. They are often seen during the day. They feed on pollen and nectar. This makes them important pollinators for plants.

The specific habitat of Mordellistena teneriffensis is not widely known. However, like other beetles in its family, it likely lives in areas with flowering plants. This provides them with food and a place to live.

Life Cycle of a Beetle

Beetles go through a complete metamorphosis. This means they have four main life stages. These stages are egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Each stage looks very different.

Egg Stage

The life of a beetle starts as a tiny egg. Female beetles lay their eggs in safe places. This could be on plants, in soil, or in decaying wood. The eggs are usually very small.

Larva Stage

After hatching, the egg becomes a larva. Larvae are often worm-like. They spend their time eating and growing. They shed their skin several times as they grow. This process is called molting.

Pupa Stage

Once the larva is fully grown, it changes into a pupa. The pupa stage is a resting stage. During this time, the beetle transforms. It changes from its larval form into an adult. This transformation happens inside a protective casing.

Adult Stage

Finally, the adult beetle emerges from the pupa. The adult beetle is ready to reproduce. It will then lay its own eggs. This completes the life cycle. The adult stage is usually when beetles are seen flying or crawling around.

Discovery of Mordellistena teneriffensis

This beetle species was first identified in 1965. It was described by a scientist named Ermisch. Scientists give new species names to help identify them. The name teneriffensis suggests it might have been found near Tenerife. Tenerife is one of the Canary Islands.

Studying new species helps us understand biodiversity. It also helps us learn more about the natural world.

See also

In Spanish: Mordellistena teneriffensis para niños