Entomology
Beetles are one of the largest orders of insects (Coleoptera) with thousands of species. Before identifying specific types, it's important to understand the basic anatomy of a beetle:
- Hard covers protect wings.
- Three body segments: head, thorax, and abdomen.
- Six jointed legs. 2 on they thorax and 4 on the abdomen.
- Chewing mouthparts with mandibles.
- Segmented antennae that vary in shape and length.
Reproduction Cycle
The average life span of a beetle is anywhere from a few months to a year and depending on the species:
- Eggs: Most species will hatch within a few weeks.
- Larva: The average beetle will complete this process in about a month while some such as the stag beetle can take 3 to 5 years. Beetles will molt several times during this stage.
- Pupa: Lasting typically several weeks to serveral months.
- Adult: The adult beetle will live for anywhere from a few months to a year.
Social Aspects
Most Beetles have a typical anti social behaviors while some species with social behaviors include:
- Solitary living most of there lives alone.
- Do not raise there young often hiding the eggs in a safe location
- Territorial prodteecting resources and potential mates.
Treatment Options
- Sticky traps in areas of known beetle infestation.
- Use insecticidal soap
- Pyrethrin based insecticides
