Beetles are insects belonging to the order Coleoptera,
Beetles are insects belonging to the order Coleoptera, which is the largest order in the world of insects. Beetles have hard bodies covered by hard wings (elytra) which protect the soft wings beneath them.
They are found in almost all habitats, from tropical forests to deserts, and play an important role in the ecosystem as eaters of plants, detritus, or even predators of other insects. Beetles come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from very small to quite large.
Some species, such as the longhorned beetle, have characteristically long, powerful horns that are used in fighting or to attract mates. On the other hand, beetles such as weevils or wood-eating beetles can cause damage to plants or trees by gnawing at the wood or roots.
Although many beetles are harmless to humans, some species can be pests that damage agriculture and ornamental plants. However, there are also many beneficial beetles, such as predatory beetles that help control pest populations.
As a very diverse group of insects, beetles play an important role in maintaining natural balance and decomposition processes.
