Amara

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Adephaga
Family: Carabidae
Subfamily: Harpalinae
Supertribe: Pterostichitae
Tribe: Zabrini
Genus: Amara

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Amara: /əˈmɑːrə/

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Images

Summary

Amara is a genus of carabid beetles with around 105 species in North America and ~600 worldwide, known for their ecological habitats ranging from wet to arid areas, mainly feeding on seeds.

Physical Characteristics

Size: 5–11 mm, usually 6–9 mm; elytron with striae and punctures depending on species.

Identification Tips

Species identification can be complex, often utilizing habitus photos of various species and specific characteristics such as the protibial spur and pronotum shape.

Habitat

Commonly found in wet sand or mud, under logs or rocks in damp areas; prefers dry open areas within these habitats.

Distribution

Mostly Holarctic, across North America and widespread in regions with many species globally.

Diet

Most species feed on seeds; some, like A. obesa, feed on grasshopper eggs.

Life Cycle

Some species overwinter as adults, although specifics on the overall life cycle are not detailed.