Agonum suturale
Say, 1830
sutured harp ground beetle
Agonum suturale is a of ground beetle in the Platyninae. It is found in the western half of North America, including Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The species exhibits metallic coloration and is of moderate size for the . It is known to occur in turfgrass where it functions as a .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Agonum suturale: //æˈɡoʊnəm suːˈtʊreɪli//
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Identification
Distinguished from similar Agonum by the combination of metallic green to bronze coloration with distinctly green elytral margins. The size range of 8.5–11 mm and western North American distribution help separate it from eastern . Examination of male genitalia may be required for definitive identification from closely related species.
Images
Appearance
Metallic green, blue-green, or bronze coloration with green elytral margins. Length 8.5–11 mm. Body form typical of Platyninae with parallel-sided .
Habitat
Occurs in turfgrass and likely other open ground . The has been documented in agricultural and managed grassland settings.
Distribution
Western half of North America: Canada, United States, and Mexico. Present in Middle America and North America.
Behavior
Has been observed as a in turfgrass , attacking clay model decoys in research studies. activity patterns are inferred from related ground beetles but not confirmed for this .
Ecological Role
Functions as a in turfgrass and ground-dwelling . Contributes to of pest insects in managed grassland .
Human Relevance
Identified as a beneficial in turfgrass programs. Its presence can be monitored using clay model techniques to assess predator activity and support strategies.
Similar Taxa
- Agonum spp.Many share metallic coloration and body form; require examination of elytral margin coloration and male genitalia for separation
- Other Platyninae members share parallel-sided and ground-dwelling habits; -level characters distinguish Agonum
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The has been listed with authorship as both Say, 1830 and (Letzner, 1851). GBIF recognizes Say, 1830 as the accepted authority. Catalogue of Life lists it as an ambiguous synonym under Agonum (Olisares) sexpunctatum, reflecting ongoing taxonomic uncertainty in this species group.
Research Methods
Documented in University of Georgia studies using clay model decoys to assess activity in turfgrass, where it was identified as one of several ground beetle predators responding to the models.