Melolonthidae

Common Name

May beetles or June beetles

Overview

Melolonthidae, commonly known as May beetles or June beetles, comprises several species of beetles that are typically active during late spring and early summer. These beetles are part of the Scarabaeidae family, which is well-known for its wide diversity and ecological significance.

Taxonomy

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Coleoptera
• Family: Melolonthidae

Key Characteristics

• Generally medium to large in size.
• Robust and somewhat elongate bodies.
• Brown to black coloration, often with a slightly iridescent sheen.
• Distinctive antennae with leaf-like lamellae at their tips.
• Strong, spiny legs adapted for digging.

Life Cycle

• Egg: Females lay eggs in the soil.
• Larva: Known as white grubs, these larvae live underground, feeding on plant roots.
• Pupa: Develops in the soil; the pupation stage varies by species.
• Adult: Emerges from the soil, typically during late spring or early summer.

Behavior and Ecology

• Nocturnal as adults; many are attracted to lights.
• Larvae live and feed underground, primarily on the roots of grasses and crops.
• Adults feed on foliage and flowers.
• Play a crucial role as both pests and as prey for various predators.

Notable Species

• Phyllophaga : A genus within Melolonthidae that includes numerous species of May/June beetles.
• Melolontha melolontha : The common European cockchafer, notable for its significant impact on agriculture.

Conservation

While many species are abundant and not at risk, some specific habitats may face threats due to agricultural practices and habitat destruction.

Significance to Humans

• Agriculture: Larvae (white grubs) can be severe pests of crops, damaging the root systems of plants.
• Ecology: Serve as a food source for various wildlife species, including birds and mammals.

Fun Facts

• Bioluminescent Bags: Some species have adult beetles that exhibit a greenish glow, which could be used in courtship displays.
• Sound Makers: Male beetles often produce distinctive sounds by rubbing their body parts together, known as stridulation.
• Long Tenure: The European cockchafer ( Melolontha melolontha ) has been known since the Middle Ages for its dramatic population booms and crashes.
• Historical Pest: In medieval Europe, beetles were sometimes tried in court and condemned for their destructiveness.