Overview of Beetle Species
Beetles (order Coleoptera) are the most diverse group of insects, with an estimated 350,000 species worldwide. They inhabit nearly every environment, from forests and fields to freshwater and even human homes. Beetles play critical roles in ecosystems as pollinators, decomposers, and predators.
Book novelties:
Prioninae of the World I.
Cerambycidae of the Western Paleartic I.
Common Types of Beetle Species
Beetle species
Here is a summary of some of the most notable beetle types, their scientific names, key features, and typical habitats:
Common Name Scientific Name Size Notable Features & Habitat
Ladybug Coccinellidae 0.8–18 mm Bright colors, aphid predator, gardens, fields
Carrion Beetle Silphidae 9–30 mm Black, decomposer, found on decaying matter
Flesh-eating Beetle Dermestidae 10–25 mm Eats keratin, used in cleaning bones
Rove Beetle Staphylinidae 2–7.6 mm Elongated body, moist habitats
Weevil Curculionoidea ~6 mm Long snout, crop pest
Ground Beetle Carabidae 0.15–3.0 cm Shiny, predatory, ground-dwelling
Scarab Beetle Scarabaeidae 1.5–160 mm Bright metallic, scavenger, dung/carrion feeder
Dung Beetle Scarabaeoidea 5–50 mm Feeds on feces, important decomposer
Stag Beetle Lucanidae 0.5–5 in Large jaws, feeds on sap, wooded areas
Soldier Beetle Cantharidae 8–13 mm Soft wing-cases, plant/insect eater
Leaf Beetle Chrysomelidae 1–35 mm Plant feeder, diverse shapes and colors
Mountain Pine Beetle Dendroctonus ponderosae ~6.35 mm Bark pest, attacks pine trees
Tiger Beetle Cicindelinae up to 25.4 mm Fast runner, predatory, metallic colors
Emerald Ash Borer Agrilus planipennis 8.5 mm Metallic green, ash tree pest
Green June Beetle Cotinis nitida 15–22 mm Turf pest, shiny green, eastern US
This is only a small sample; thousands of other beetle species exist, each with unique adaptations and ecological roles.
Noteworthy Beetle Facts
Diversity: Beetles account for about 25% of all known animal life-forms on Earth.
Body Structure: They have three body parts (head, thorax, abdomen), two pairs of wings (the outer pair hardened into elytra), and two segmented antennae.
Metamorphosis: Beetles undergo complete metamorphosis: egg → larva → pupa → adult.
Lifespan: Most beetles live from 10 days to 6 months as adults, though some can survive longer under favorable conditions.
Ecological and Economic Importance
Decomposers: Species like dung and carrion beetles recycle nutrients by breaking down waste and dead organisms.
Pests: Some, such as weevils and emerald ash borers, are significant agricultural or forestry pests.
Beneficial Insects: Ladybugs and ground beetles help control pest populations in gardens and farms.
Conclusion
Beetles are incredibly diverse, both in form and function. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in nearly every habitat on Earth, making them one of the most successful groups of animals.