Common Name: Vivid Metallic Ground Beetle Latin Name:
Chlaenius sericeus sericeus (Forster, 1771)
(R.
Bercha, det.)
Length: 11.9 - 16.1 mm
Range: Alberta
Habitat: Riparian areas
Time of year seen: April
to June (Additional
Sightings)
Diet: Dead or injured insects
Other: The name Vivid Metallic Ground Beetle comes
from the vibrant metallic coloration of these beetles. Upon close
examination of their elytra a layer of fine hairs is noticeable.
These beetles prefer riparian habitats such as river banks and wetlands.
Look for them hiding under rocks or debris during the day. They are
fast runners and disappear quickly when disturbed. When cornered or
threatened they can generate a noxious odor. Chaenius sericeus is a
widespread species typically found along the shores of rivers. The
females of this species lay their eggs in small mud cells which are attached
to vegetation. (Arnett et al, 2001 & Eaton et al, 2007) |