Melyrodes

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Melyrodes: //mɛˈliːr.oʊˌdiːz//

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Summary

Melyrodes is a genus of soft-winged flower beetles belonging to the family Melyridae, characterized by their brightly patterned bodies and predatory nature in both larval and adult stages. They are widely distributed from the U.S. to Bolivia, with significant diversity in tropical areas.

Physical Characteristics

Most are elongate-oval, soft-bodied beetles 10 mm long or less. Many are brightly patterned in black and brown, yellow, or red. Some possess enlarged basal antennomeres.

Identification Tips

Coarsely punctate dorsum is diagnostic; look for the overall shape and coloration patterns which may include bright colors.

Habitat

Commonly found on flowers; associated with tropical rainforests for greater diversity.

Distribution

From the United States to Bolivia; over 100 genera worldwide with ~520 species in North America and 16 genera in Europe.

Diet

Most adults and larvae are predaceous, but many are found on flowers.

Ecosystem Role

Predators of other insects and sometimes serve a role in the pollination of flowers.

Evolution

The oldest fossils of the family are Sinomelyris and Juraniscus from the late Middle Jurassic. The family shows a long evolutionary history dating back to the Jurassic.

Tags

• Melyrodes
• Melyridae
• Coleoptera
• soft-winged flower beetles
• predaceous insects