Tomoxia interrupta facts for kids

Tomoxia interrupta is a fascinating type of beetle. It belongs to a group of beetles known as Tomoxia. This particular species is part of the Mordellidae family. A scientist named Champion first described it in 1891.

What is Tomoxia interrupta?

Tomoxia interrupta 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.

The Mordellidae Family

Tomoxia interrupta is a member of the Mordellidae family. These beetles are often called "tumbling flower beetles." They get this name because of how they move. When disturbed, they often tumble or jump away. They are also usually found on flowers.

Appearance of Tomoxia interrupta

Most beetles in the Mordellidae family are small. They are usually dark in color. 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 flowers.

Where Do These Beetles Live?

Tomoxia interrupta and other tumbling flower beetles live in many places. They are often found in areas with lots of flowers. This includes meadows, gardens, and forests. They like places where they can find their food easily.

Habitat and Environment

These beetles prefer warm and sunny environments. They are active during the day. You might spot them on the petals of various flowers. They play a role in their ecosystem.

What Do They Eat?

Tomoxia interrupta beetles mostly feed on pollen and nectar. They find these tasty treats inside flowers. This makes them important for plants.

Role in Pollination

As they move from flower to flower, they help plants. They carry pollen from one flower to another. This process is called pollination. Pollination helps plants make seeds. It is how new plants grow.

Life Cycle and Reproduction

Like all insects, Tomoxia interrupta goes through different life stages. This is called a life cycle. It includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.

From Egg to Adult Beetle

Female beetles lay tiny eggs. These eggs hatch into larvae. Larvae are like small worms. They eat and grow. After growing enough, the larva turns into a pupa. The pupa stage is a resting stage. Inside the pupa, the beetle changes. Finally, an adult beetle emerges from the pupa. The adult beetle then finds a mate. This starts the cycle all over again.

Discovery of Tomoxia interrupta

The beetle Tomoxia interrupta was first identified in 1891. This was done by a scientist named Champion. Scientists give new species unique names. This helps everyone know exactly which creature they are talking about.