Daily Botanical: Soldier Beetles on Black Eyed Susans
Yesterday, while visiting a series of test gardens, I witnessed legions of these gold and black soldier beetles (Chauliognathus pensylvanicus) aka Pennsylvania Leatherwing beetles squirming, frolicking and procreating up a storm all over a bed of ‘Tiger Eye Gold’ Rudbeckia.
As I moved around the beds I observed that they only inhabited the flowers that perfectly matched their body colours. Interesting tactic for safety since they are likely quite vulnerable during these frenzied acts reproducing the species. When not procreating, I’ve read that the adults eat pollen and specifically enjoy goldenrod. However, this was a HIGHLY cultivated property and there was nary a goldenrod in sight.
August 21st, 2009 at 10:34 am
Thanks for a new posting. The last one wasn’t pc for the office. I almost got rid of your rss, cuz it wasn’t going away. Just an fyi
August 21st, 2009 at 2:11 pm
“Penis flower” is too hardcore for work? Do you work in an office with small children?
August 21st, 2009 at 2:54 pm
I gotta say, I’ve always been a big fan of the penis flower, especially for work.
August 21st, 2009 at 3:09 pm
Yes I do!
August 24th, 2009 at 10:11 pm
Flower Power!