Cetoniinae

Definition

A subfamily of beetles known commonly as flower chafers or flower beetles, characterized by their bright colors and association with flowers, where they feed on nectar, pollen, and sometimes other plant tissues.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'keta-', meaning 'horned beetle' (though 'keto-' can refer to sea monsters, the root here is related to beetles) and '-inae', a suffix used in taxonomy to denote subfamilies.

Example

The rose chafer, a member of the Cetoniinae, is often seen in gardens feeding on flowers.

Synonyms

• Flower chafers
• Flower beetles

Related Terms

• Scarabaeidae
• Beetles
• Pollinators

Usage Notes

Cetoniinae display a range of bright metallic colors and are often mistaken for bees due to their behavior of visiting flowers.