Mordella

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mordella: /mɔrˈdɛl.a/

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Summary

Mordella is a genus of tumbling flower beetles within the family Mordellidae, found in various habitats and characterized by their distinctive morphology and life cycle.

Physical Characteristics

Size ranges from 3-8 mm; antennae are strongly sawtoothed to clubbed; hind tibiae have tubercles but no ridges on the outer surface near the tip; usually black with some exhibiting patterns of light colored hairs on their elytra.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinctive antennal shape and the presence of tubercles on the hind tibiae.

Habitat

Larvae primarily inhabit dead wood; adults may be found in diverse habitats floral ecosystems.

Distribution

Widely distributed in the Holarctic and adjacent regions.

Diet

Primarily wood-borers as larvae; adults may feed on flower nectar.

Life Cycle

Life cycle involves larvae living in dead wood and emerging as adults.

Reproduction

Details on specific reproductive behaviors are not provided; reproduction likely follows typical coleopteran patterns, involving egg laying in suitable substrates.

Ecosystem Role

As larvae, they play a role in decomposing dead wood; adults likely contribute to pollination.

Collecting Methods

• Using insect nets or aspirators in flower-rich areas
• Traps placed on or near dead wood

Preservation Methods

• Pinning for collection specimens
• Preservation in alcohol

Similar Taxa

• Other genera in the family Mordellidae
• Other tumbling flower beetles

Tags

• Coleoptera
• Mordellidae
• Insecta
• Beetles
• Holarctic