Podabrus binotatus
LeConte, 1881
soldier beetle
Podabrus binotatus is a soldier beetle in the Cantharidae. are elongate beetles with soft, flexible wing covers that give rise to the 'leatherwings.' The has been observed feeding on aphids and other soft-bodied insects in gardens. Like other cantharid beetles, it possesses defensive chemical glands.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Podabrus binotatus: /pɒˈdæbrəs baɪˈnɒtətəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other by soft, flexible (leatherwings). Within Cantharidae, Podabrus is one of three common California genera alongside Cantharis and Chauliognathus. -level identification requires examination of specific morphological features not detailed in available sources.
Appearance
Elongate with soft, flexible wing covers () that appear smooth to velvety. commonly bent downward. 11-segmented, threadlike, typically held forward of the body. Pronotum wider than the head and wider than long. Coloration includes blackish and red patterns typical of soldier beetles.
Habitat
Observed on flowers and leaves infested with aphids or other honeydew-excreting insects. Garden with rose bushes documented.
Distribution
North America; present in California where it is one of approximately 160 of soldier beetles in 11 .
Seasonality
active during the day; specific seasonal timing not documented.
Diet
Feeds on aphids and other soft-bodied insects. Has been observed consuming aphids on rose bushes.
Behavior
When disturbed, may withdraw legs and drop to the ground as if dead (). Adults, larvae, and pupae can excrete noxious, defensive chemicals from specialized abdominal glands. activity documented between feeding sites.
Ecological Role
of aphids and other soft-bodied insects; contributes to of pest in gardens and agricultural settings.
Human Relevance
Beneficial insect in gardens; consumes aphids that damage ornamental plants and crops. No negative impacts documented.
Similar Taxa
- Cantharis spp.Another common California of soldier beetles; similar soft-bodied appearance and -feeding
- Chauliognathus spp.Third common California of soldier beetles; shares -level traits of soft and predatory habits
- Lady beetles (Coccinellidae)Competitors for prey; distinguished by hard, rounded rather than soft, flexible wing covers
More Details
Defensive Chemistry
The blackish and red coloration serves as aposematic (warning) coloration alerting vertebrate that cantharid beetles are distasteful due to their ability to excrete noxious defensive chemicals.