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Habitat
Adults: terrestrial
Immatures: terrestrial
Feeding Habits
Adults:
Immatures: predaceous
Size: 2 to 15 mm
Flight : strong flier
North American Species: 204
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Coleoptera Mordellidae
Tumbling flower beetles
Front Wings: hardened
Hind Wings: membranous
Mouthparts: chewing
Antenna Length: shorter than body
Antenna Shape: straight
Front Legs: unmodified
Hind Legs: unmodified
Special Characteristics:
Most species of Mordellidae are under 8 mm long. These beetles have a characteristic humpbacked shape, with the head bent downwards, and a long pointed abdomen and long hind legs. The colour is variable, but most are black or gray and the body is covered with scales or setae.
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Comments: The larvae of most species are predaceous but a few are stem and leaf miners. They are commonly found on flowers, especially composites, in midsummer. The larvae are common in rotting wood and dead branches. They are active beetles and run or fly rapidly when disturbed.
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