Amara alpina

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Amara alpina: /əˈmɑːrə ælˈpiːnə/

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Images

Amara alpina by Faunae Insektorm Germanica Initia. Deutschlands Insekten. Teil 3.. Used under a Public domain license.

Summary

Amara alpina is a species of beetle in the family Carabidae, native to cold northern regions of Europe and Asia. First described by Gustaf von Paykull in 1790, it is characterized by its black body and reddish-black elytra with striations.

Physical Characteristics

Adult length is 7.3 to 11.5 mm (0.29 to 0.45 in). Mainly black body with reddish-black elytra etched with fine longitudinal striations; legs are often red.

Identification Tips

Look for a medium-sized beetle with distinct reddish-black elytra and black body; pay attention to the fine longitudinal striations on the elytra.

Habitat

Cold regions at high altitudes and high latitudes; found in moraines, vacant lots, and meadows, usually on dry, sandy soils.

Distribution

Holarctic distribution, including northern North America (from Newfoundland to Alaska, through the Rocky Mountains) and across northern Eurasia (from Britain to the Pacific Coast).

Diet

Amara alpina has been observed eating dead bodies of other insects, particularly in snowfields.

Reproduction

Autumn breeder.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in the decomposition of organic matter by feeding on dead insects.

Similar Taxa

Amara obtusa