Home > Animals > Insects > Beetles > American Burying Beetle
American burying beetle, Nicrophorus americanus
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
American burying beetle, Nicrophorus americanus
American burying beetle or giant carrion beetle, Nicrophorus americanus, critically endangered, and Necrophorus medianus. Handcoloured copperplate engraving drawn and engraved by Richard Polydore Nodder from William Elford Leachs Zoological Miscellany, McMillan, London, 1815
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23210518
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Americanus Beetle Burying Carrion Coleoptera Critically Elford Endangered Giant Leach Miscellany Nodder Polydore Zoological Gravedigger
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Insects
> Beetle
> Carrion Beetles
> Animals
> Insects
> Beetles
> American Burying Beetle
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Related Images
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisitely hand-colored copperplate engraving, drawn and engraved by Richard Polydore Nodder, depicts two critically endangered species of burying beetles: Nicrophorus americanus, also known as the American burying beetle or giant carrion beetle, and Necrophorus medianus. The image, published in William Elford Leach's Zoological Miscellany in 1815, showcases the unique features of these fascinating insects. The American burying beetle, N. americanus, is easily recognizable by its convex thorax and long mandibles, which it uses to bury and provision its larvae with the carrion it finds. The beetle's vibrant colors, including its iridescent green head and black and orange body, serve as a warning to other insects that this beetle is a formidable predator. The smaller Necrophorus medianus, also known as the common burying beetle, can be seen in the background of the image. This species, while not as critically endangered as N. americanus, is still an essential component of the decomposition process in many ecosystems. Burying beetles play a crucial role in the decomposition of carrion and the recycling of nutrients in their ecosystems. However, these beetles have faced numerous threats, including habitat loss, fragmentation, and the use of pesticides. The American burying beetle, in particular, is considered critically endangered, with populations declining by over 90% in the last century. Conservation efforts, such as habitat restoration and captive breeding programs, are ongoing to help preserve these important insects and the vital role they play in their ecosystems.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
