Subfamily Cetoniidae is a taxonomic classification for a group of beetles commonly known as flower chafers. The word is pronounced /səbˈfæməli sɪˌtoʊnaɪˈdiː/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet. The spelling is derived from the Latin word "cetonia," which means "a kind of beetle." The suffix "idae" denotes a family of organisms. The subfamily Cetoniidae consists of around 4,000 species that are distributed worldwide in various habitats. These beetles are characterized by their vibrant colors and metallic sheens, making them popular among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Subfamily Cetoniidae is a taxonomic classification within the family Scarabaeidae, which includes a diverse group of beetles commonly known as flower or fruit chafers. This subfamily consists of around 4,000 known species, making it one of the largest subfamilies within Scarabaeidae.
Members of Subfamily Cetoniidae are easily recognized by their compact and oval-shaped bodies that range in size from small to large. These beetles commonly display vibrant and contrasting colors, often with metallic or iridescent hues, which contribute to their overall attractiveness to humans. They are primarily found in tropical regions, although some species can be found in temperate areas as well.
Subfamily Cetoniidae beetles are primarily active during the day, and as their common name suggests, they are often found feeding on flowers and fruits. They play a crucial ecological role in pollination, as they transfer pollen from one plant to another while feeding. This makes them valuable contributors to plant biodiversity and overall ecosystem health.
These beetles undergo a complete metamorphosis, with eggs being laid in rotting wood or soil. The larvae, known as grubs, typically feed on decaying organic matter before pupating into adults. The mature beetles have strong mouthparts that allow them to chew through fruits or flower petals, extracting nectar, pollen, or sap.
Due to their striking appearance, many species within Subfamily Cetoniidae are collected and traded for their aesthetic value. As a result, some populations may suffer a decline. Conservation efforts are important to ensure the survival and preservation of these beetles' habitats.
The etymology of the word "Subfamily Cetoniidae" comes from the Latin word "Cetonia", meaning "a type of beetle", and the suffix "-idae", used in taxonomy to denote a family. Therefore, "Cetoniidae" refers to the family of beetles known as Cetoniidae. The word "Subfamily" indicates that it is a subordinate taxonomic category within the family Cetoniidae.