Mordellidae

Family: Mordellidae

Common Name

Tumbling Flower Beetles

Overview

Mordellidae, commonly known as tumbling flower beetles, is a family of beetles that are small to medium in size. They are named for their erratic, tumbling motion when disturbed. This family includes over 1,500 species distributed worldwide.

Taxonomy

Key Characteristics

  • Size: Typically 2-7 mm in length
  • Body Shape: Elongated, wedge-shaped
  • Color: Usually black or brown, sometimes with yellow or white markings
  • Antennae: Filiform or slightly clubbed
  • Legs: Hind legs adapted for jumping
  • Elytra: Shortened, leaving the last few abdominal segments exposed

Life Cycle

  • Egg: Laid in plant stems, flowers, or decaying wood
  • Larva: Develop within the host material, feeding on decaying organic matter or plant tissues
  • Pupa: Develops within a cell made from plant material or soil
  • Adult: Emerge and can be found on flowers or foliage, feeding on pollen and nectar

Behavior and Ecology

  • Movement: Known for their tumbling motion when disturbed
  • Habitat: Found on flowers, under bark, in decaying wood, or in leaf litter
  • Diet: Adults feed on pollen and nectar; larvae feed on decaying plant material or sometimes boring into plant tissues
  • Pollination: Some species play a role in pollination

Notable Species

  • Mordella marginata
  • Mordellistena chevrolati
  • Mordellina ancilla

Conservation

Most species of Mordellidae are not under significant threat and are widespread. Their conservation status varies, with many not assessed due to their lesser-known ecological roles.

Significance to Humans

Tumbling flower beetles are of interest to entomologists for their unique behaviors and ecological roles. They also play a part in the pollination of some plants, contributing to plant reproduction.

Fun Facts

  • Jumping Ability: Their hind legs are highly adapted for jumping.
  • Tumbling Motion: Their name comes from their erratic tumbling motion when disturbed.
  • Dietary Variety: While adults prefer nectar and pollen, larvae may be found boring into plant stems or consuming decaying wood.
  • Worldwide Distribution: Mordellidae can be found on every continent except Antarctica.