They are usually not far from water and hide during the day under rocks. But they are also found in Europe and small colonies have even been observed in the southern part of England. Special defence system with moveable tank turret!īombardier beetles (Carabidae Brachinini) are found mainly in warm countries such as parts of Asia, Africa, Australia, USA (Florida, California). The spray is a mixture of caustic chemicals, hot water and steam and is blasted out of a special nozzle which can be pointed in any direction! The extraordinary bombardier beetle emits a hot spray to ward off any would be predator – and usually wins.
BOMBARDIER BEETLE TV
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BOMBARDIER BEETLE FREE
While bombardier beetles have been able to free themselves of ants, they have not been as successful with creationists who argue that the existence of these arthropods is proof of the theory of creation. But by that time they will have succeeded in unfurling their wings and are ready to leave their attackers behind wallowing in their hot, toxic wake. Pressure due to the buildup of oxygen then causes the hot mixture of water and benzoquinone to be expelled with a “pop,” much to the woe of any attacking ants.īombardier beetles can launch their chemical “bombs” up to twenty times before running out of ammunition. This reaction is so highly exothermic that the chemical mixture can reach a temperature of 100 degrees C. When the contents of the two glands are mixed, oxygen forms and in turn reacts with hydroquinone to convert it to benzoquinone. One contains hydrogen peroxide and hydroquinone, while the other harbours a mixture of enzymes known as catalases and peroxidases that can react with hydrogen peroxide to form oxygen gas and water.
The irritant chenmical is formed just prior to launch by mixing the contents of two separate glands. But it is the chemistry of the spray that is truly amazing. The spray originates from a turret-like appendage under its abdomen which the beetle manoevres to achieve remarkable accuracy. When attacked by predators, mostly ants, the beetle unleashes bursts of its hot chemical spray accompanied by audible detonations. The African bombardier beetle, Stenaptinus insignis, has been extensively studied to understand its remarkable defense system. Since beetles cannot instantly fly away when attacked, they have evolved emergency defenses to use while they plot their getaway. Sort of like Clark Kent having to shed his everyday clothes before becoming Superman. Their wings are stored under wing covers and have to be released before they can take to the air. Based on their ability to discharge “chemical bombs” when threatened, bombardier beetles are aptly named.īeetles are different from other insects in that while they can fly, they cannot do so instantly. In all likelihood it would be a memorable, but unhappy experience. Why not? Because you risk being sprayed with a hot solution containing irritant chemicals known as benzoquinones.
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