Mimicry of Hymenoptera by Beetles with Unconventional Flight

Abstract

Flower-visiting beetles of the genus Acmaeodera (Buprestidae) bear a striking resemblance to Hymenoptera in flight. Unlike most other beetles, they fly with their membranous hindwings only, and their forewings, which are inseparably coupled and permanently held over the abdomen, bear color markings commonly found on the abdomens of bees and wasps.