MORDELLINA Meaning and
Definition
-
Mordellina is a term used in biology to refer to a genus of beetles belonging to the family Mordellidae. These small insects are commonly known as tumbling flower beetles due to their peculiar behavior of tumbling or somersaulting when disturbed or approached by potential threats. The genus Mordellina consists of numerous species that are widely distributed across various regions, including Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa.
Typically, mordellina beetles are characterized by their elongated and slender body shape, measuring about 4 to 7 millimeters in length. Their bodies are usually black or dark brown in color, and some species may possess yellow or red markings. Mordellina beetles are recognized by their modified hind legs, which are enlarged and bent at the knee joint, providing them with the ability to quickly tumble or jump when alarmed.
These beetles are commonly found in open habitats such as meadows, gardens, and pastures, where they feed on pollen and nectar from various flowering plants. As pollinators, mordellina beetles play a crucial role in the reproduction of flowering plants by transferring pollen grains between flowers.
Overall, mordellina beetles are fascinating insects renowned for their unique tumbling behavior, and their ecological importance as pollinators makes them significant contributors to the natural biodiversity of many ecosystems.
