Mechanism

Anatomy

The anatomy of glands, composition of compounds and stimulus of the defense all are necessary in explaining the defense mechanism of bombardier beetles. However, there is a large diversity in the mechanics of different species of bombardier beetles. For example, bombardier species in tropical habitats generally use formic acid in their chemical defense, whereas species in temperate regions use quinones, carboxylic acids, and phenols. (Giglio, Brandmayr et al. 2011) The following presents the basic mechanism that all bombardier beetles share, and could be easily modified to fit a specific species’ defense mechanism.

 

 

 

 

 

The organs used in the species defense mechanism are divided into four parts; the secretory glands, the efferent ducts, the reservoir, and the reaction chamber (Eisner and Aneshansley 1999).

 

 

 

 

 

Chemical Compounds

 Hydroquinones and hydrogen peroxide are stored in the reservoir and catalases and peroxidases are stored in the reaction chamber. Upon agitation, the valve between the reservoir and the reaction chamber opens, allowing for the compounds to mix. Hydroquinones are oxidized, forming quinones. (Bonacci, Brandmayr et al. 2011) This formation is exothermic, releasing a large amount of heat and causing the spray to boil as it is ejected. (Eisner and Aneshansley 2000)

rwv
Hydrogen peroxide

 

wvr

Hydroquinone