Mordellini
Latreille, 1802
Genus Guides
8- Glipa
- Hoshihananomia
- Mordella(tumbling flower beetles)
- Mordellaria
- Paramordellaria(tumbling flower beetles)
- Tolidomordella
- Tomoxia
- Yakuhananomia
Mordellini is a tribe of beetles within the Mordellidae, commonly known as tumbling flower beetles. Members are characterized by their distinctive tumbling escape and elongated abdominal tip. The tribe contains numerous distributed worldwide, with larvae that develop in decaying wood or plant stems.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Mordellini: /mɔrˈdɛl.liː.naɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Mordellini beetles can be distinguished from other mordellid tribes by genitalic and larval characteristics, though specific diagnostic features require expert examination. generally share the traits of wedge-shaped body, humpbacked profile, and pointed that extends beyond the .
Images
Habitat
are frequently found on flowers, particularly umbellifers and composites. Larvae inhabit decaying wood, dead stems, and pith of herbaceous plants.
Distribution
Worldwide distribution with recorded across North America, Europe, Asia, and other regions.
Seasonality
activity peaks during spring and summer months when flowering plants are abundant.
Life Cycle
Larvae are wood-borers or stem-borers in dead or dying plant material. Complete with , larval, pupal, and stages.
Behavior
exhibit characteristic tumbling movements when disturbed—springing and rotating through the air to escape . This is facilitated by the pointed abdominal tip that acts as a lever against substrates.
Ecological Role
Larvae contribute to decomposition of dead plant material. may serve as while visiting flowers.
Human Relevance
Generally harmless to humans and agriculture. Occasionally encountered by entomologists and naturalists.