Arthropods (Insects) of the United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates15 March 1999Draft

Arthropods are animals that possess Jointed limbs and body parts and an external Skeleton. Domino Ground Beetle (Anthia duodecimguttata) 50 Fils The domino ground beetle is a common insect of desert scrub- land and gravel plains around the edges of sandy deserts and mountains. The striking design of white spots on a black background accounts for both the scientific and popular names of this beetle. It usually remains hidden underground by day, but leaves its hide at night to feed on other insects or carrion. During the cooler months of the year, especially after rain, it is also active during the daytime and mating takes place on these occasions. In the U.A.E. there are several dozen other ground beetles, similar in shape, but smaller and less distinctively marked than the domino beetle. Oleander Hawkmoth (Daphnis nerii) 150 Fils The oleander hawkmoth is the prettiest of the six species of hawkmoths that are commonly found in the UAE. All six are , large, powerful moths with wingspans of 6 to 12cms and all are migratory insects. They often appear m substantial numbers m the U.A.E. where breeding takes place after rain has fallen.