Ground beetles are among the biggest and most diverse families of beetles, with over 40,000 species globally. Over 2300 beetles live in North America, while 2700 live in Europe.
These beetles are separated into several subfamilies, which consist of several genera.
Size: 0.125-0.25 in (0.31-1.27 cm)
Color: Varied; most are black and dark brown, though other colors like bronze and green are seen. A metallic sheen is observed in the beetles of this family.
Other Characteristic Features: The beetles produce noxious or even acidic chemicals, which they spray at predators to deter them.
They are either black or brown, with elongated bodies and six legs on the thorax. Their bodies are segmented with pincers on their heads.
Pupation generally occurs after three instars, with the beetles staying underground during this stage.
The eggs are white, small, and oval-shaped. Females lay 30-600 eggs on either the soil or the leaves of the host plant.
| Lifespan | 2-3 years |
| Distribution | Worldwide |
| Habitat | Mostly in forests, but also deserts, mountains, and seashores |
| Predators | Spiders, other ground beetles |
| Seasons active | Spring to early summer |
| Host Plants | Asparagus, rhubarb, and other flowering and herbaceous plants |
| Diet of adults | Aphids, larvae of moths and beetles, mites, and springtails |
These beetles do not cause any damage intentionally and only use their pincers and spray their chemicals in defense.
