Rutelus

Rutelus is a genus of beetles in the family Scarabaeidae, commonly known as chafers. These beetles are distributed worldwide, with a significant number of species found in the Neotropics and the Palearctic regions. Rutelus beetles are typically medium-sized, with adults often exhibiting metallic coloration, ranging from green to bronze and red. The larvae, known as grubs, are C-shaped and live in the soil, feeding on plant roots.

Adult rutelus beetles are primarily herbivorous, feeding on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of various plants. Some species can be considered agricultural pests due to the damage they inflict on crops, while others have a more limited impact on vegetation. The life cycle of rutelus beetles generally involves egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. The duration of each stage can vary depending on the species and environmental conditions.

Reproduction typically involves mating in the spring or summer, followed by egg-laying in the soil. The larvae develop underground, undergoing several molts before pupating and emerging as adult beetles. The adult lifespan is often relatively short, focused on feeding and reproduction. Due to their varied diets and life cycles, rutelus beetles play roles in ecosystems as herbivores, food sources for other animals, and sometimes as agents of ecological disturbance. Conservation status varies among species, with some facing threats from habitat loss and others being abundant.