Rove Beetle

Natural Habitat

Highly diverse, found in almost all terrestrial and freshwater habitats, including leaf litter, under bark, fungi, carrion, and often associated with decaying organic matter.

Diet & Feeding

Most are predatory, feeding on other insects and invertebrates (e.g., mites, springtails, larvae, nematodes). Some feed on fungi, decaying plants, or even carrion.

Behavior Patterns

Many species are active and fast-moving, often raising their abdomen like scorpions when disturbed. Most are nocturnal or active in low light. Larval stages also play diverse ecological roles, often predatory.

Risks & Benefits

Generally beneficial as predators of pest insects in agriculture and gardens. Some species are important decomposers. A few species, particularly blister beetles (which are not Rove Beetles but can be confused), can cause skin irritation, but true rove beetles are usually harmless to humans, though some may emit defensive chemicals.

Identified on: 10/18/2025