Beetle

Adephaga

Reproduction

The larval period of beetles varies between species but can be as long as several years. Adults have an extremely variable lifespan, again, from weeks to years.

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Beetles may display some extremely intricate behaviour when mating. Smell is thought to play significant importance in the location of a mate.

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Conflict can play a part in the mating rituals for example in species such as burying beetles (genus Nicrophorus) where localised conflicts between males and females rage until only one of each is left, thus ensuring reproduction by the strongest and fittest. Many beetles are territorial and will fiercly defend there small patch of territory from intruding males.

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Pairing is generally short but in some cases will last for several hours. During pairing sperm cells are transferred to the female to fertilise the egg.

Related Topics:
Sperm cell - Fertilise

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