Tule Beetle

Natural Habitat

Typically found in alkali sinks, salt marshes, and dry lake beds. They are often found under debris or rocks in saline environments.

Diet & Feeding

Generalist scavengers and predators; they feed on small arthropods, insect eggs, and decaying organic matter.

Behavior Patterns

They are active runners and can be found in large numbers near seasonal wetlands as they dry up. They exhibit rapid, ant-like movements to avoid predators and are primarily diurnal.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans; they pose no medical risk. They are beneficial to the ecosystem as decomposers and for their role in the food web of sensitive wetland habitats.

Identified on: 4/1/2026