Scarab beetles like the emerald beetle play an important role in many natural communities. Both the colorful hard-coated adult beetles and their pale soft-bodied larvae, called grubs, feed on and break down dead and decomposing plant matter. Thus, they help recycle nutrients.
Emerald Beetle
Smaragdestes orzini
Fact File
Where to see them: World of the Insect
Lifespan: 6 months
Ecological Role: Decomposer
Habitat: Tropical scrubland
Diet: Rotting fruit
90-Second Naturalist 
