Galerita bicolor

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Adephaga
Family: Carabidae
Subfamily: Harpalinae
Supertribe: Harpalitae
Tribe: Galeritini
Genus: Galerita
Species: bicolor

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Galerita bicolor: /ɡəˈlɛrɪtə ˈbaɪkələr/

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Summary

Galerita bicolor, or the False bombardier beetle, is a species of beetle found in the eastern United States, known for its mimicry of bombardier beetles, which helps it evade predators. It is generally 17.5-22.5 mm long, lives in moist areas, and feeds on insects at both larval and adult stages.

Physical Characteristics

G. bicolor is generally about 17.0-22.5 mm in length, elongated, with a bicolor scheme (red and black). The head is narrow and smaller than the body, the elytra is black and ridged with setae over the basal third, and the pronotum is red.

Identification Tips

Can be separated from similar species based on the shape of the head and/or pronotum; similar in appearance to the bombardier beetle.

Habitat

Moist areas, including woodlands, meadows, and backyards. Typically found under bark, leaf litter, or rocks/logs.

Distribution

G. bicolor is found from New York to Florida, and west to South Dakota and Texas.

Diet

Both larvae and adults feed on insects.

Life Cycle

Not much is known about the life cycle; however, they are usually encountered dead or under leaf litter and can live about 1-2 years in the wild.

Reproduction

Females produce purse-shaped mud cells under leaves where eggs are laid.

Predators

Mainly hunted by birds.

Ecosystem Role

As predators of insects, they play a role in controlling insect populations.

Misconceptions

Though they mimic bombardier beetles, they can still emit a foul odor but not as strong as true bombardier beetles.