Gold-and-brown Rove Beetle

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Ontholestes cingulatus: //ˌɒnθoʊˈlɛstiːz ˌsɪŋɡjʊˈleɪtəs//

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Summary

Ontholestes cingulatus, also known as the gold-and-brown rove beetle or carrion beetle, is a large rove beetle in the family Staphylinidae, found across Canada and the northern US, associated with decaying organic material and known for its predation on flies.

Physical Characteristics

13-20 mm in length, with clumps of hair forming dark spots on much of the body. Yellow hair forms a 'belt' under the thorax and covers parts of the last abdominal segments. The head is wider than the pronotum and often the yellow tip of the abdomen is turned upward when walking.

Identification Tips

Can be confused with Platydracus maculosus, but Ontholestes cingulatus has much larger eyes and the reflective golden color on the abdomen is due to dense reflective fur on a dark integument.

Habitat

Commonly found on carrion, dung, and decaying organic material.

Distribution

Across Canada and northern United States.

Diet

Feeds on flies and fly larvae associated with carrion and dung.

Life Cycle

Eggs are laid near carrion or fungi; they pupate in chambers in the soil nearby.

Ecosystem Role

Predator of flies and other insects, often found on fresh cow pies.

Cultural Significance

Commonly referred to as 'Pie Killer' due to their hunting habits on fresh cow dung, indicating their role in nutrient cycling.

Collecting Methods

• Netting
• Using bait stations with carrion or dung

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol
• Pinning in insect collections

Similar Taxa

• Platydracus maculosus

Tags

• beetle
• Insecta
• Staphylinidae
• carrion beetle
• predator