Opossum beetle

Pronunciation
/OP-uh-somm BEE-tuhl/
Category
Taxonomy
Singular
Opossum beetle
Plural
Opossum beetles

Definition

A type of beetle incorrectly referred to as 'Opossum beetle.' No recognized beetle family known as *Nematocarae*; might be a confusion with another family or mythical reference possibly due to scavenging habits similar to opossums.

Etymology

The name likely comes from their association with opossums, which are known scavengers, but no entomological basis found.

Example

Some beetles are often found in areas where there is a lot of organic debris, much like opossums.

Related Terms

  • Scavengers
  • Carrion
  • Decomposition