A well-illustrated guide that provides a fascinating introduction to this huge and diverse group of insects.
Winner of the 2010 Whitley Medal A Guide to the Beetles of Australia provides a comprehensive introduction to the Coleoptera - a huge and diverse group of insects. Beetles make up 40 per cent of all insects known to science. The number of described beetle species in the world - around 350 000 - is more than six times the number of all vertebrate species. New beetle species are being discovered all the time. Of the 30 000 species that may occur in Australia, only 20 000 have been scientifically described. These include around 6500 weevils (Curculionidae), 2600 scarabs, dung beetles and chafers (Scarabaeidae); and 2250 leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae). A Guide to the Beetles of Australia highlights the enormous diversity of this unique insect Order. It emphasises the environmental role of beetles, their relationships with other plants and animals, and their importance to humans.
has had an interest in insects since early childhood. He studied beetles in many parts of the world and in the last four decades he focused on the Australian fauna. After his retirement from the Australian Museum, where he worked as Chief Preparator, he participated in various projects as a consultant, curated the insect collection of AQIS (NSW) and wrote several articles and books. He continues to collaborate with many Australian and overseas coleopterists.