beetles

Tortoise leaf beetles enjoy the protection the fungus provides from insect predators such as ants, then carry the microbe to a mutual plant host, which their fungal symbiont infects.

The glossy shell of some beetles, it has long been speculated, helps hide the insects from predators. A recent paper put the hypothesis to the test—and found it wanting.

The Scientist spoke with entomologist Matt Bertone about the characteristics of Laemophloeus biguttatus larvae jumps—a previously unreported behavior in this group of beetles.

Watch one scurry around upside down in a remarkably unusual form of locomotion.

The click beetle’s intricate false eyes cast a deep black color with the help of pigment-coated hairs.

Scarab beetle horns share a common genetic origin with wings.

Plants, fungi, and bacteria likely contributed to insect diversity.

Insects in the soil are difficult to monitor, but listening in on the noises they make could help farmers detect pest infestations and improve estimates of biodiversity.

Genetic material left behind on flowers can reveal which insects have visited.

The exaggerated horns and elongated forelegs of male flower beetles, which use these appendages as weapons in combat for females, do not slow down the insects in a race.

A single transcription factor regulates a harlequin ladybird’s colors.

A 99-million-year-old beetle preserved in amber alongside grains of pollen likely pollinated prehistoric plants.

Some beetle species may have evolved to tunnel into the ground to escape the pathogens that abound on dead and rotting animals.

The bombardier beetle forced its devourer to vomit it out by releasing explosive, toxic chemicals.

Leptinotarsa decemlineata has been decimating agricultural crops since at least the 19th century, and by sequencing its genome researchers hope to explore new strategies for controlling the pest.

Insect wings may have evolved from multiple origins, say researchers.

Beetles cherish the dung they live and feed on.

Scientists look to a leaf beetle’s genitals for lessons on improving catheter strength.  

Rare genetic variants could blunt efforts to destroy pest populations.