Chlaenius aestivus
Say, 1823
Summer Harp Ground Beetle
Chlaenius aestivus is a large ground beetle in the Carabidae, native to North America. The exhibits distinctive iridescent coloration on the and , with black grooved and orange legs. It is primarily , seeking shelter under rocks and debris during daylight hours in moist . The species is distinguished from by specific antennal proportions, with antennomere 3 longer than antennomeres 1 and 2 combined, and longer than antennomere 4.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chlaenius aestivus: /ˈkleɪniəs ɛˈstɪvəs/
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Identification
Distinguished from similar Chlaenius by antennal proportions: antennomere 3 exceeds the combined length of antennomeres 1 and 2, and also exceeds the length of antennomere 4. The iridescent and combined with black grooved and orange legs provide additional visual cues for identification.
Images
Habitat
Moist environments including muddy bottomlands; shelter sites include spaces under rocks, logs, and other ground debris
Distribution
North America: recorded from Canada and the United States
Life Cycle
are laid in mud attached to grasses
Behavior
Nocturnally active; seeks shelter under cover objects during daylight hours