Nicrophorus quadripunctatus is a species of burying beetle that predominates in East Asia. First described by German entomologist Ernst Kraatz in 1877, this beetle has since been the subject of much scientific inquiry—particularly concerning its parental care. Like other burying beetles, N. quadripunctatus inhabit small, vertebrate animal carcasses. This environment provides the beetles with the requisite nutrients for themselves and their offspring. To limit resource theft and predation, the carcass is buried underground. For additional protection, a single, dominant male-female pair guards the carcass cooperatively.

Adult N. quadripunctatus have an average pronotum width of around 5 mm, and are identifiable by their horizontal red striping on their elytra. They possess formidable mandibles capable of tearing into carcasses. They also have a pair of chemoreceptor antennae for locating carrion. N. quadripunctatus engage in both female and male intrasexual competition for mates and are typically monogamous. Once mated, they exhibit biparental care for their offspring.

...