Caterpillar Hunter Beetles

Calosoma

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Calosoma: /kæ.loʊˈsoʊ.mə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Calosoma striatus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Calosoma scrutator by Alejandro Santillana "Insects Unlocked" Project by Alejandro Santillane. Used under a CC0 license.
Calosoma wilcoxi P1590356a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Calosoma (Calodrepa) wilcoxi (34188852193) by Insects Unlocked . Used under a CC0 license.
Calosoma scrutator (22299426482) by Insects Unlocked . Used under a CC0 license.
Calosoma scrutator P1600119a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Calosoma, also known as caterpillar hunters or searchers, are large ground beetles characterized by their distinctive thorax, coloration, and predatory habits towards caterpillars. They play a significant role in pest control and have been introduced in some regions for this purpose.

Physical Characteristics

Large ground beetles, typically black or with bright metallic coloration. Recognizable by a large thorax almost the size of their abdomen, which is much wider than their head. Adults range from 13–35 mm in length.

Identification Tips

Look for the large thorax compared to the head and the foul-smelling spray produced from glands near the tip of the abdomen.

Habitat

Primarily found throughout the Northern Hemisphere, especially in diverse habitats in the south.

Distribution

Worldwide, including much of North America, with more species diversity in southern areas.

Diet

Voracious consumers of caterpillars during both larval and adult stages.

Life Cycle

Undergo complete metamorphosis including egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Details on specific reproductive methods may vary by species but generally involve the laying of eggs in areas where caterpillar prey is abundant.

Ecosystem Role

Considered beneficial insects due to their predation on pest caterpillars.

Economic Impact

Used as a biological control agent, especially notable for Calosoma sycophanta, imported to New England for pest control.

Collecting Methods

  • Pitfall traps
  • Hand collection

Preservation Methods

  • Dried in a cool and dry environment
  • Stored in entomological collection boxes

Evolution

Part of the family Carabidae with diverse evolutionary history and extensive species variation.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Despite their size and predatory behavior, they are beneficial and do not pose a threat to humans.

Tags

  • beetles
  • predatory insects
  • beneficial insects
  • Coleoptera
  • ground beetles