Ground Beetle
Scientific Name: Carabidae (likely a member of the genus Carabus or Abax given its appearance)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Carabidae
Size: Generally 0.1 to 1.4 inches (3 mm to 35 mm) long, with species in the genus Carabus often being among the larger ones.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in various terrestrial habitats including forests, grasslands, gardens, agricultural fields, and under rocks, logs, or leaf litter. They prefer dark, damp environments.
Diet & Feeding
The majority of ground beetles are predatory, feeding on a wide range of invertebrates such as slugs, snails, earthworms, caterpillars, aphids, and other insect larvae. Some species also consume seeds or fungi.
Behavior Patterns
Mostly nocturnal, hunting for prey at night. During the day, they hide under objects or in soil cracks. Many species are flightless, relying on their legs for movement. They are active runners and possess strong mandibles for capturing prey. Many species emit defensive chemicals when threatened.
Risks & Benefits
Generally beneficial as they are natural predators of many garden and agricultural pests, helping to control insect populations without pesticides. They pose no significant risks to humans, though some larger species may deliver a minor bite if handled roughly. The defensive chemicals emitted by some species can be irritating if they come into contact with skin or eyes, but are not life-threatening.
Identified on: 9/10/2025