Coleoptera
Coleoptera
Coleoptera (pronunciation: /koʊliːˈɒptərə/), from the Greek words "koleos" meaning "sheath", and "pteron" meaning "wing", is the order of insects commonly known as beetles. The name refers to the hardened forewings or "elytra" that cover the flight wings, providing a protective sheath.
Characteristics
Coleoptera are characterized by a particularly hard exoskeleton and hard forewings (or Elytra). They have a wide range of feeding habits, including phytophagy, mycophagy, carnivory, necrophagy, and coprophagy.
Classification
The order Coleoptera is divided into four suborders: Archostemata, Myxophaga, Adephaga, and Polyphaga, but the largest and most diverse of these is the Polyphaga.
Evolution
The Coleoptera order is believed to have evolved during the Permian period, approximately 300 million years ago.
Diversity
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects, representing about 40% of all known insects. They are found in nearly all habitats, but are most numerous in the tropical rainforests.
Economic Importance
Many Coleoptera species are beneficial to humans by controlling the populations of harmful insects. However, some species are pests and can cause serious damage to crops and stored food products.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Coleoptera
- Wikipedia's article - Coleoptera
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