Beetle
Scientific Name: Coleoptera (This image alone is insufficient to determine the specific scientific name beyond the Order level)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera (This image alone is insufficient to determine the specific family beyond Order)
Size: Highly variable, ranging from less than 1 mm to over 15 cm in length.
Natural Habitat
Beetles can be found in nearly every habitat on Earth, including terrestrial (forests, grasslands, deserts, agricultural fields) and freshwater environments.
Diet & Feeding
The diet of beetles is extremely diverse. Some are herbivorous (feeding on plants, wood, fungi), others are carnivorous (predators or scavengers), and some are omnivorous.
Behavior Patterns
Beetles undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Many are nocturnal, but diurnal species also exist. Their behavior varies widely depending on the species; some are solitary, while others live in colonies. They are known for their hard exoskeletons and diverse ecological roles.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Some beetles are agricultural pests (e.g., Colorado potato beetle, boll weevil) causing significant crop damage. A few can carry diseases or cause structural damage (e.g., powderpost beetles). Benefits: Many beetles are beneficial as decomposers (recycling nutrients), predators of pests (e.g., ladybugs eating aphids), pollinators, and as a food source for other animals.
Identified on: 8/29/2025