Eleodes eschscholtzii
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Tenebrionoidea
- Family: Tenebrionidae
- Subfamily: Blaptinae
- Tribe: Amphidorini
- Genus: Eleodes
- Species: eschscholtzii
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eleodes eschscholtzii: /ɛˈleɪədəz ɛˈʃoʊltsiaɪ/
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Summary
Eleodes eschscholtzii is a desert stink beetle native to Arizona and northwestern Mexico, known for its ecological role in desert ecosystems as a detritivore.
Physical Characteristics
Eleodes eschscholtzii exhibits a robust body structure typical of desert stink beetles, possessing a hard exoskeleton that may display a dark coloration, aiding in camouflage against the desert landscape.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinctive shape typical of the Tenebrionidae family and their characteristic stink odor when disturbed.
Habitat
Eleodes eschscholtzii primarily inhabits desert environments, thriving in arid regions of Arizona and northwestern Mexico.
Distribution
This species can be found in the southwestern United States and areas of northwestern Mexico.
Diet
As a detritivore, Eleodes eschscholtzii feeds on decaying organic matter, contributing to nutrient cycling in its ecosystem.
Life Cycle
The life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, following a complete metamorphosis typical of beetles.
Reproduction
Reproduction involves layings eggs in the soil or on decaying materials, where larvae will emerge and develop.
Predators
Predators of Eleodes eschscholtzii may include various birds and mammals that feed on beetles.
Ecosystem Role
As a detritivore, this beetle plays a crucial ecological role in breaking down organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection in natural habitats
- Pitfall traps
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying
- Pinning specimens
Misconceptions
Some may confuse Eleodes eschscholtzii with harmful pests, despite its role in nutrient cycling and lack of threat to crops or humans.
Tags
- beetle
- desert stink beetle
- Eleodes
- Tenebrionidae
- ecology