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Ironclad Beetle

Zopherus nodulosus haldemani

Description:

Ironclad beetles range in size from about ½ to 1 1/4 inches in length. Some of the species are entirely black but some are strikingly marked with white and black patterns, which can make it very difficult to locate them on the trunk of trees. These beetles are unique in that they have no hind wings and their elytra (front wings) are fused together. Thus they do not fly but crawl from place to place. Its exoskeleton (integument) is extremely hard.

Habitat:

Side of house in wildlife habitat yard.

Notes:

The exoskeletons of these beetles is extremely thick, hence their name. This species is living jewelry in Mexico where the beetles are decorated by jewelers.

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2 Comments

joanbstanley
joanbstanley 10 years ago

From what I have read about the hardness of their exoskeleton, it really is.

Mark Ridgway
Mark Ridgway 10 years ago

That looks a perfect common name.

joanbstanley
Spotted by
joanbstanley

Texas, USA

Spotted on May 11, 2013
Submitted on May 15, 2013

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