Rutelini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Rutelini: //ruːˈtɛlɪnaɪ//

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Summary

Rutelini is a diverse tribe of shiny leaf chafers within the Scarabaeidae family, comprising over 1,200 species across ~115 genera globally, notable for their vibrant coloration and ecological roles in various habitats.

Physical Characteristics

Members of the tribe Rutelini are known for their shiny exoskeletons, typically exhibiting a metallic sheen. They can vary in color, featuring shades of green, gold, blue, or bronze.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic glossy appearance of elytra, which can often display vibrant colors. Rutelini can be differentiated from other beetles by their body shape and the structure of their antennae.

Habitat

Rutelini are generally found in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and scrublands, where they often inhabit areas with abundant vegetation.

Distribution

This tribe is distributed worldwide, with a concentration in tropical and subtropical regions.

Diet

Rutelini larvae typically feed on plant roots, while adults are known to feed on leaves and flowers of various plants.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, with larvae often developing in the soil.

Reproduction

Rutelini beetles generally engage in sexual reproduction, and females lay eggs in the soil or amongst plant material.

Predators

Predators of Rutelini include various birds, amphibians, and predatory insects, such as beetles and wasps.

Ecosystem Role

Rutelini play a role in the ecosystem as pollinators and decomposers, aiding in soil aeration through their larval activities.

Economic Impact

Certain species may have an impact on agriculture and horticulture due to their feeding habits on crops and ornamental plants.

Collecting Methods

• Light trapping
• Hand collecting during daytime

Preservation Methods

• Pinning
• Alcohol preservation

Similar Taxa

• Other tribes within Scarabaeidae
• Leaf chafers from related families

Misconceptions

Some people confuse Rutelini with scarab beetles, but they belong to different tribes within the family Scarabaeidae.

Tags

• Rutelini
• Leaf chafers
• Coleoptera
• Scarabaeidae