Chitin plate on Scarabaeoidea larvae

[BeetlebreederGermany]

Hello,

I wanted to ask if anyone here knows if Scarabaeoidea species from other genera than Mecynorhina , Eudicella, Oryctes and Euchirus can show that reddish brown chitin plate on their abdomens in L3? 

Additionally, if someone knows anything about the function or whereabouts of this morphological feature, I would like to hear about that.

Best regards,

BeetlebreederGermany

[Goliathus]

A shield to help protect against predators attacking from the rear, presumably.  Among the cetoniine scarabs, it seems to be unique to certain genera of Goliathini (e.g. Mecynorhina and Eudicella).

[BeetlebreederGermany]

Hello,

that‘s what I‘m thinking as well, but I can’t seem to find any scientific studied on that, but I‘ll continue searching.

The unique feature thing is something I have noticed as well... weird how it pops up.

Thanks!

BeetlebreederGermany