Slow, yet elusive, Fire-Colored Beetles are content outside on flowers and plants where alarming colors may ward off predators.
The bright red wings and head make this conspicuous beetle look harmful, but it is not. Large, round black eyes sit at the sides of the head. Long segmented antennae are also red. Despite its classic alarm coloration, the Fire-Colored Beetle is not a threat to people. It does not bite, sting or spray caustic chemicals. Not much is known about the life history and diet of many species in the Dendroides genus of Fire-Colored Beetles. Their larvae are believed to hide under rocks and in wood piles. Adults may appear indoors after hitching a ride on firewood as a juvenile. Adults have been seen on flowers. They may be attracted to lights. As showy as they are, more research is still needed on Fire-Colored Beetles.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Arthropoda
Class:Insecta
Order:Coleoptera
Family:Pyrochroidae
Genus:Dendroides
Species:spp.
Identifying Information
Scientific Name: Dendroides spp.
Category:
Beetle
Size (Adult; Length): 9mm to 17mm (0.35in to 0.66in)
Colors: red, black
Descriptors: red, eyes, sleek, flying, antennae, long
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns. Grayed-out selections indicate that the subject in question has not been reported in that particular territory. U.S. states and Canadian provinces / territories are clickable to their respective bug listings.
Beetle Anatomy
1
Antennae: Beetles have a pair of antennae on the head used as sensors.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and mandibles (jaws).
3
Thorax: Holds the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Elytron: One of two wing cases on a Beetle that protects its wings (plural: elytra).
5
Wings: Appendages used for flying and kept under the elytra until needed.
6
Abdomen: Houses organs related to circulation, reproduction, and excretion.
7
Legs: Beetles have three pairs of legs located at the thorax, numbering six legs in all.
Colors: red, black
