Lebia viridis

Dejean, 1825

colorful foliage ground beetle

Lebia viridis is a predatory ground beetle in the Carabidae, recognized for its small size and bright metallic coloration. measure 5–7 mm in length and are , often found on flowers and vegetation. The occurs across North America, extending south through Mexico and Guatemala, with also recorded on Cuba. It is sometimes attracted to lights at night.

Lebia viridis by (c) Katja Schulz, some rights reserved (CC BY). Used under a CC-BY license.Lebia viridis by Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources - Forestry Archive. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.Lebia viridis P1190331a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lebia viridis: /ˈle.bi.a vɪˈriː.dɪs/

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Identification

Small ground beetle, 5–7 mm in length, with bright metallic wing covers that draw visual attention despite its diminutive size. Distinguished from other Lebia by specific coloration and pattern of the , though precise diagnostic features require expert examination.

Images

Distribution

North America, including the United States and Canada; Mexico; Guatemala; Cuba.

Behavior

; frequently observed on flowers and vegetation. Can be attracted to lights at night. Sometimes occurs in high abundance on flowering plants.

Ecological Role

Predatory; likely functions as a of small in floral and vegetative .

Human Relevance

Occasionally noted by entomologists and naturalists due to its conspicuous metallic coloration; no significant documented economic impact.

Similar Taxa

  • Lebia vittataCongeneric foliage ground beetle with similar small size, bright metallic coloration, and flower-visiting ; distinguished by specific elytral pattern and color details.

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Sources and further reading