Scaritini

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Adephaga
Family: Carabidae
Subfamily: Scaritinae
Tribe: Scaritini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Scaritini: //skæˈrɪtɪnaɪ//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Scarites quadriceps by Ken-ichi Ueda. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Scarites Beetle - Scaries quadriceps or vicinus, Woodbridge, Virginia by Judy Gallagher. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Scarites subterraneus 401384284 by Matthew Lindsey. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Scarites subterraneus 401384287 by Matthew Lindsey. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Scarites subterraneus 401384260 by Matthew Lindsey. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Kaldari Scarites subterraneus 01 by Kaldari. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

The tribe Scaritini contains ground beetles, particularly the genus Scarites, which is diverse with over 190 described species, mostly found in tropical areas. They exhibit interesting behaviors, such as playing dead when threatened.

Physical Characteristics

Scarites share characteristics with tropical stag beetles but are not closely related. They can often be distinguished by their behavior, as they fold their legs and arch their backs when threatened, appearing to 'play dead'.

Identification Tips

Typically found under loose rocks and boards in moist or sandy soils. Look for beetles that exhibit the unique defensive behavior of playing dead when disturbed.

Habitat

Moist or sandy soil, often under loose rocks and boards.

Distribution

Native to the Palearctic, Near East, North America, North Africa, and India.

Diet

Predatory, consuming prey such as mealworms that are larger than themselves.

Ecosystem Role

As predators, they play a role in controlling the population of their prey insects.

Similar Taxa

Stag Beetles (Lucanidae)