Put the BOMB in Bombardier

Bombardier beetles are one of the most exciting animals of all the insects.So what makes these ground beetles so interesting? They have an amazing defense mechanism, which allows them to spray 100 degree C of caustic liquid on its predator.

Quick facts: Bombardier beetles...


- are found on every continent except for antarctica


- live in woodlands, grasslands, and deserts


-eat smaller insects and larvae


-seek shelter with other beetles at night


-are preyed on by ants

The Four Questions

Niko Tinbergen is often lauded as the father of animal behavior. He created four categories of questions: phylogeny, ontogeny, mechanism, and adaptive value that are used to thoroughly explain animals’ behaviors. Lets step back in time with Niko and explore this beetles' awesome defense!

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