Beetles are the most diverse group of animals on Earth. Of the 1.2 million species of animal known to science, 75% are insects; since 40% of insects are beetles, it follows that 30% of all animal species are beetles!
Members of the Order Coleoptera, beetles have chewing mouthparts and four wings; the dorsal wings are thickened and covered by a hard, keratin surface. Highly variable in color and habitat, some beetles are aquatic (whirligigs are among the best known) but most are terrestrial. All undergo complete metamorphosis, from egg to larva to pupa to adult, and may overwinter in any form (depending on the species). Some beetles lay their eggs in the soil while others deposit them on vegetation or plant debris. Larvae come in a variety of shapes and sizes but almost all have voracious appetites and often cause significant damage to plants. Unless the beetle overwinters in a pupal state, this stage is usually brief, soon morphing to the familiar, adult form. With life spans of a month or two (much longer in some species), adult beetles are consumed with the demands of eating and mating.
While some feed on carrion and others are insectivores (ladybirds come to mind), most beetles feast on plant material and can be very destructive. Spruce and pine beetles are a significant problem for foresters and the grubs of many species pose a serious threat to gardens and lawns. Fortunately, an army of fish, frogs, toads, mantids, reptiles, birds, moles and other small mammals keep the enemy at bay.
