Click Beetle
Family Elateridae
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera, Family: Elateridae
- Size
- Typically 12 to 30 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Click beetles are commonly found in gardens, forests, and grassy areas. Indoors, they may be attracted to light and often enter through open windows or doors.
Diet & Feeding
Adults primarily feed on plant material, nectar, and pollen. Their larvae, known as wireworms, live in the soil and feed on roots, seeds, and decomposing organic matter.
Behavior Patterns
They are famous for a 'clicking' mechanism. When flipped onto their backs, they use a specialized spine on their thorax to snap and propel themselves into the air to right themselves. They are often nocturnal and attracted to light sources.
Risks & Benefits
Adult click beetles are generally harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. However, their larvae (wireworms) can be significant agricultural pests, causing damage to cereal crops, potatoes, and garden vegetables.