TaxonHub
Common Cockchafer

Common Cockchafer

Melolontha melolontha

Large beetle species native to Europe, belonging to the scarab beetle family, characterized by its substantial size and distinctive flight patterns during mating season.

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Common Cockchafer
Common Cockchafer
Common Cockchafer
Common Cockchafer
Common Cockchafer
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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Deciduous and mixed woodland areas, agricultural landscapes, gardens, and forest edges across temperate European regions, with populations ranging from sea level to approximately 1,500 meters elevation.

Ecological Role

Critical pollinator and essential component of forest and agricultural ecosystems, serving as prey for birds, bats, and small mammals, while larval stages contribute to soil nutrient cycling.

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Hardened chitinous exoskeleton with fine setae, providing protection and sensory capabilities
  • LIMBS WINGS Strong flying capabilities with two pairs of wings, hardened forewings (elytra) protecting membranous hindwings, powerful legs adapted for terrestrial movement
  • HEAD SENSORY Large compound eyes, sensitive antennae with sexual dimorphic fan-like structures for pheromone detection
  • BODY STRUCTURE Robust beetle, approximately 25-35 mm in length, with dark brown to reddish-brown exoskeleton and distinctive lamellate antennae
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Holger Krisp
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Related Species in Scarabaeidae