Meloe is a genus of blister beetles commonly referred to as oil beetles. [1] The name derives from their defensive strategy: when threatened they release oily droplets of hemolymph from their joints (legs, neck, and antennae).

Jan 28, 2025 · American Oil Beetle (Meloe americanus) Detailing the physical features, habits, territorial reach and other identifying qualities of the American Oil Beetle 

Meloe americanus, or the American oil beetle, is a type of blister beetle. It belongs to the genus Meloe, which is one of the larger genera in the Meloidae family, with 146 known species. [2] They are called “oil beetles” because of a fluid they release from their joints when they feel threatened. [4] Adult body length ranges from 7 mm to ...

Nov 26, 2020 · American Oil Beetle (Meloe americanus) American oil beetle, a part of the blister beetle (Meloidae) family, is indigenous to different parts of North America. They primarily feed on buttercup plants, hence also called the buttercup oil beetle.

Feb 14, 2025 · Genus Meloe - Oil Beetles Classification · Synonyms and other taxonomic changes · Explanation of Names · Numbers · Size · Identification · Range · Habitat · Food · Life Cycle · Remarks · Works Cited

Apr 13, 2022 · The oil beetles belong to the family of blister beetles. They are known for secreting venomous oils and utilizing bees to raise their larva. Size: 0.28-1.2 in (0.7-3 cm) Color: Most are varying shades of black, with some showing violet-blue coloration.

Meloe violaceus, the violet oil beetle, is a species of oil beetle belonging to the family Meloidae subfamily Meloinae. These beetles are present in most of Europe, in the eastern Palearctic realm, in the Near East, and in North Africa.

The meaning of MELOE is a widely distributed genus of beetles that is type of the family Meloidae and comprises the oil beetles.

There are more than 20 Meloe species in North America, and all look rather similar: black, chubby, lacking hind wings, and with very short, overlapping wing covers. Learn more about oil beetles and other blister beetles (family Meloidae) in their family page.

Jan 29, 2025 · Oil Beetle (Meloe spp) Detailing the physical features, habits, territorial reach and other identifying qualities of the Oil Beetle