Mordella obliqua

LeConte, 1878

Mordella obliqua is a of tumbling flower beetle in the Mordellidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1878. Members of this family are characterized by their wedge-shaped bodies and ability to 'tumble' when disturbed. The species is part of the superfamily Tenebrionoidea, a diverse group of beetles that includes darkling beetles and related families. Like other Mordellidae, this species likely inhabits flowers and decaying vegetation, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mordella obliqua: //mɔrˈdɛl.lɑ oʊˈbliː.kwə//

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Distribution

North America. The has been recorded as present on the continent, though specific regional details are not well documented in available sources.

More Details

Taxonomic history

First described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1878, a prominent American entomologist who described thousands of North American during the 19th century.

Family characteristics

Mordellidae, known as tumbling flower beetles, are named for their characteristic defensive of tumbling or jumping when disturbed. The is distinguished by a pointed and enlarged hind that enable this jumping ability.