Mexican jumping beans are a unique type of bean that are known for their unusual movement. They are often sold as novelty items, and many people wonder whether or not these beans can die. In this article, we will explore the lifespan of Mexican jumping beans and what factors can affect their longevity.
What Are Mexican Jumping Beans?
Mexican jumping beans are small beans that are native to Mexico. They are typically found inside the seed pods of a type of shrub called Sebastiania pavoniana. These beans are not actually beans at all, but rather the larvae of a small moth called Laspeyresia saltitans. The movement of the beans is caused by the moth larvae inside the bean moving around as they feed on the bean's nutrients.
How Long Do Mexican Jumping Beans Live?
Mexican jumping beans typically live for a few months. The lifespan of the bean depends on several factors, including the age of the bean when it was harvested and the conditions in which it is kept. If the bean is kept in a dry and cool environment, it may live longer than if it is kept in a warm and humid environment.
What Happens When Mexican Jumping Beans Die?
When Mexican jumping beans die, they stop moving. The larvae inside the bean will eventually pupate and transform into moths, but this will only happen if the bean was harvested before the larvae had fully developed. If the bean was harvested after the larvae had pupated, it will not transform into a moth and will simply decay.
How Can You Tell If a Mexican Jumping Bean Is Dead?
You can tell if a Mexican jumping bean is dead by observing its movement. If the bean is no longer moving, it is likely that the larvae inside have died. Another way to tell if a bean is dead is to gently squeeze it. If it feels soft and mushy, it is likely that the bean has started to decay.
What Factors Affect the Lifespan of Mexican Jumping Beans?
Several factors can affect the lifespan of Mexican jumping beans. These include:- Temperature: Mexican jumping beans prefer cool and dry environments. If they are kept in a warm and humid environment, they may die more quickly.- Humidity: Mexican jumping beans need some humidity to survive, but too much humidity can cause them to mold and rot.- Age: The age of the bean when it was harvested can affect its lifespan. Beans that are harvested too early may not have fully developed larvae, while beans that are harvested too late may already be decaying.
How Can You Keep Mexican Jumping Beans Alive?
To keep Mexican jumping beans alive, it is important to keep them in a cool and dry environment. You can store them in a small container with a few air holes to allow for some airflow. It is also important to keep the beans away from direct sunlight and to avoid getting them wet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mexican jumping beans can die, but their lifespan depends on several factors. If you want to keep your Mexican jumping beans alive, it is important to keep them in a cool and dry environment and to avoid getting them wet. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the unique movement of these fascinating beans for months to come.
