Insect Order Coleoptera - the beetles
and weevils
The Coleoptera is the largest order of
insects; it contains about forty percent of all known species. It
includes the beetles and weevils. Among the more than 250,000 species
are many of the largest and most beautiful of all insects. Some have
brilliant metallic colors, showy patterns or striking forms.
Beetles can usually be recognized by their
two pairs of wings. The first pair is modified into horny covers
(elytra) that hide the rear pair and most of the abdomen. they usually
meet down the back in a straight line. Coleoptera occur in nearly
all climates.