Introduction to California Beetles

by Evans, Arthur V.; Hogue, James N.

• ISBN13: 9780520240353
• ISBN10: 0520240359
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2004-03-01
• Publisher: Univ of California Pr

Summary

The amazing armored bodies of beetles allow them to bore into plant tissue, navigate fast-moving streams, burrow through seemingly impenetrable soil, survive blistering heat, and fly. With around 8,000 species living in California, beetles represent the largest and most diverse group of organisms in the state and are an excellent subject for study since they can be found almost everywhere--in backyards, gardens, forests, and deserts. This, the only guide to California beetles available, is the perfect book for anyone--from outdoor enthusiasts to professional biologists--who wants to explore the fascinating world of beetles. In addition to providing information on where to find and how to study beetles, the book also gives an engaging and accessible overview of their natural history, biology, distribution, and relation to humans. * 51 color illustrations and supporting black-and-white photographs and drawings identify the characteristics and habits of 23 of the most conspicuous and interesting beetle families in California * Chapters describe beetles of special interest--fossil species, endangered species, pests, biological control agents, and more * Includes an annotated list of terrestrial and aquatic beetle habitats by season, information on starting and caring for a beetle collection, details on keeping beetles alive in the classroom, and a checklist of California beetle families

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments

Introduction

A Brief History of Beetle Study in California

Form, Diversity, and Classification

The Lives of Beetles

Distribution of California Beetles

Beetles of Special Interest

Common and Conspicuous

Families of California Beetles

Ground and Tiger Beetles (Carabidae)

Whirligig Beetles (Gyrinidae)

Predaceous Diving Beetles (Dytiscidae)

Water Scavenger Beetles (Hydrophilidae)

Clown Beetles (Histeridae)

Burying and Carrion Beetles (Silphidae)

Rove Beetles (Staphylinidae)

Rain Beetles (Pleocomidae)

Scarab, Dung, May, and June Beetles and Chafers (Scarabaeidae)

Jewel or Metallic Wood-boring Beetles (Buprestidae)

Click Beetles (Elateridae)

Phengodid Beetles (Phengodidae)

Fireflies and Glowworms (Lampyridae)

Soldier Beetles (Cantharidae)

Skin Beetles (Dermestidae)

Bostrichid Beetles (Bostrichidae)

Checkered Beetles (Cleridae)

Lady Beetles (Coccinellidae)

Darkling Beetles (Tenebrionidae)

Blister Beetles (Meloidae)

Longhorned Wood-boring Beetles (Cerambycidae)

Leaf Beetles (Chrysomelidae)

Weevils and Ambrosia, Bark, or Snout Beetles (Curculionidae)

Studying Beetles

Checklist of North American Beetle Families California's Sensitive Beetles Collections, Societies, and Other Resources

Selected References

Index

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.