Four-spotted Sap Beetle

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Glischrochilus quadrisignatus: /ɡlɪs.kroʊˈkaɪ.ləs ˌkwɑːdrɪsɪɡˈneɪtəs/

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Summary

Glischrochilus quadrisignatus, commonly known as the four-spotted sap beetle, is a sap-feeding beetle that feeds primarily on damaged or overripe fruits and vegetables, leaving distinct holes similar to those made by slugs. It is found throughout North America and is known to be attracted to fermenting substances, making it a nuisance in gardens and picnic areas.

Physical Characteristics

4.0-7.0 mm in length; distinguished by smaller elytral blotches with the anterior ones farther apart than the posterior.

Identification Tips

Smaller elytral blotches compared to G. fasciatus and a dark venter in contrast to the reddish-brown venter of G. sanguinolentus.

Habitat

Commonly found in areas associated with overripe or decomposing fruits and vegetables, particularly in gardens and agricultural areas.

Distribution

Native to North America; distribution extends from Northern Florida to Texas and Utah, and adventive and widespread in Europe.

Diet

Feeds on fruits and vegetables that are damaged, overripe, or decomposing.

Ecosystem Role

Contributes to the decomposition process by feeding on damaged or overripe fruits and vegetables.

Economic Impact

May cause damage to crops by feeding on fruits and vegetables, leading to economic losses in agricultural settings.

Collecting Methods

• Bait traps using overripe fruit or other suitable baits.
• Hand collecting in garden areas.

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Freezing specimens for temporary storage.

Similar Taxa

• G. fasciatus
• G. sanguinolentus

Misconceptions

Often confused with other beetles that feed on fruits and vegetables.

Tags

• beetle
• sap beetle
• nitidulidae
• Glischrochilus
• Four-spotted Sap Beetle