Coleoptera

Coleoptera is an insect order that includes beetles, characterized by their hardened forewings called elytra, which protect their delicate flight wings underneath. These wings allow beetles to effectively navigate their environments, whether for feeding, mating, or migration. Beetles vary widely in size, shape, and habitat, making up the largest group of insects with over 350,000 known species. They play essential roles in ecosystems, such as pollination, decomposition, and serving as food for other animals. Their distinctive wing structure and diverse adaptations make Coleoptera a fascinating and significant group within the insect world.