Interesting Tech Friday tidbit: What is a Bombardier beetle?
Posted By RichC on July 11, 2025
The Bombardier beetle is a remarkable insect known for its unique and powerful chemical defense system. Belonging to the family Carabidae, these beetles are found on nearly every continent and are especially famous among entomologists and naturalists for the way they defend themselves from predators.
Key Characteristics:
- Chemical Defense:
The Bombardier beetle can eject a hot, noxious chemical spray from its abdomen when threatened. This spray is not only irritating but also produced at near boiling temperatures (up to 100°C or 212°F) and delivered in rapid-fire pulses with an audible popping sound. - How It Works:
Inside its abdomen, the beetle stores two chemical compounds—hydroquinone and hydrogen peroxide—in separate reservoirs. When danger is sensed, these chemicals are mixed in a specialized combustion chamber along with catalytic enzymes (like peroxidase and catalase), resulting in an explosive chemical reaction. The force of the reaction propels the spray toward the predator. - Accuracy and Control:
The beetle can aim this spray with impressive accuracy, even swiveling the tip of its abdomen to hit specific targets. Some species can release the spray in multiple quick bursts rather than a single shot.
Additional Facts:
- Species: There are over 500 species of Bombardier beetles.
- Size: Most are small, typically about 1 to 2 centimeters (0.4 to 0.8 inches) long.
- Habitat: Commonly found in forests, fields, and near water sources.
- Diet: Generally predatory, feeding on other insects.
Fascination in Science:
The Bombardier beetle is often cited in discussions about biomimetics (mimicking natural processes for technological solutions) and is frequently referenced in debates on evolution and intelligent design, given the apparent complexity of its defense system.
ChatGPT (photo from Wikipedia) and an Apple Shortcut script from Notes test
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