Read about related Coleoptera by using the "Forward" and "Backward" device icons. Beetles represent the largest Order of insects, containing over 250,000 described species. Beetle groups include tiger beetles, ground beetles, water beetles, whirligig beetles, fungus beetles, rove beetles, stag beetles, scarab beetles, wood-boring beetles, click beetles, fireflies, dermestids, ladybird beetles, darkling beetles, longhorn beetles, blister beetles, leaf beetles, weevils and many others.

Palm Weevil Pupae Rhynchophorus spp. Coleoptera Curculionidae These weevil beetle are known as billbugs for their well developed snouts. Adult weevils are attracted to rotting palm trunks where they lay their eggs. The weevil grubs are eaten in Africa and Indonesia as a nutritious source of fat and protein. Protective cocoons of this weevil are constructed from palm fibers. Adult weevils use practice thanotosis to protect themselves. This involves dropping to the ground and feigning death when disturbed. These beetles can become considerable pest to palm crops. Ancient Egyptian society saw pupal beetles as the mummies, symbolic of the death before the rebirth into the adult form. View the Index of Orders View Complete Photo List Ants, Bees & Wasps Butterflies & Moths Flies Beetles Lacewings & Antlions Leafhoppers & Cicadas True Bugs Cockroaches Praying Mantids Grasshoppers, Crickets Walking Sticks Dragonflies & Damselflies Mayflies Non-Insects