Coleoptera
Beetle's are the most diverse group of animals on the planet.
Wow, what incredible creatures. Before the years end I hope you will have
a greater appreciation for insects in particular the wonderful world of beetles
Below are some of the general characteristics of beetles.
1. They are generally stout and hard bodied insects. They have two pairs of wings. The first is hardened into what is called elytra. The second pair of wings are membranous and held beneath the elytra. The second pair of wings provide the thrust for flight.
2. Wings meet in the middle along the back (dorsal). This midline is a good character to look for in beetles.
3. Mouth parts are chewing (mandibles)
As a young taxonomist you should be able to identify an organism as a BEETLE. Within this order you should be able to identify the following families.
Below are some images of beetles. Some of them are in the above families and some are not. Study the images and the specimens provided in your identification lab. If you have any questions please let me know. Please refer to your blue insect lab sheet for help. The images below are few in number but will help prepare you for your insect identification labs and practical lab quiz.
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Hydrophilidae
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Dytiscidae
Scarabaeidae
Cicindelidae
Carabidae
MORE COLEOPTERANS
The insects below should be identified as insects in the order Coleoptera. You do not need to know the families their families.