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Bombardier beetle

Bombardier beetle

Brachinus crepitans

A species of Bombardier beetles

Brachinus crepitans can reach a length of 7–10.2 millimetres (0.28–0.40 in), with an average of 8 millimetres (0.31 in). Head and protum are brown, while elytrae are greenish. The species is very similar to Brachinus efflans.

General Info About Bombardier beetle
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Attributes of Bombardier beetle
Colors
Black
Green
Red
Habitat
The species can be found in dry and sunny areas, and usually under stones. It can also be found in calcareous grasslands, arable land, and chalk quarries.
Adult Food Sources
Insects, caterpillars, aphids, larvae, small arthropods
Larva Food Source
Other insects, insect larvae, small arthropods, aphids, caterpillars
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Bombardier beetle
Most of the time the species can be found in southern England and southern Wales where its abundant in coastal areas. The inland locations have been sited as well through, the most recent of which are Cotswolds and Northamptonshire where it was discovered in limestones. It was also found in boulder clay in Huntingdonshire, and in Brotheridge Green, an old railway line and wildlife reserve that was located near Malvern, Worcestershire. The species were found in the 1970s by Ian L. Crombie.
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Life Cycle of Bombardier beetle
Egg The tiny eggs of bombardier beetle are usually laid in concealed locations. They are oval and have a smooth, translucent outer layer. This stage is focused purely on embryonic development, which leads up to the hatching of larvae.
Larva Larvae of bombardier beetle are worm-like creatures, lacking wings and complex pigmentation. They exhibit a voracious appetite for growth and will molt several times, increasing in size with each molt.
Pupal During this stage, bombardier beetle undergoes significant transformation inside a pupal case. The body is immobile and externally undergoes drastic changes in color, form, and size, as adult structures develop.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult bombardier beetle’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Interesting Facts About Bombardier beetle
Bombardier beetle can explosively eject a mixture of chemicals from their abdomen to ward off predators, creating a small 'pop' sound as it does so.
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Scientific Classification of Bombardier beetle
Tips for Finding Bombardier beetle
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How Can You Attract Bombardier beetle
No specific trap food is generally used for attracting bombardier beetle due to its predatory nature. Instead, creating an environment that attracts its prey might be more effective in luring bombardier beetle.
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Habitat Preferences of Bombardier beetle Through Different Life Stages
The egg stage of bombardier beetle can typically be found in moist soil or leaf litter as it provides a secure and nurturing environment. Larvae of bombardier beetle, on the other hand, can be located by meticulously searching under stones or logs where they hunt other invertebrates. Mature larvae then choose protected places to pupate, often underground. The adults are frequently observed scurrying on open ground in search of prey or mates, especially in grassy or wooded habitats. Therefore, depending on the stage of development, searching different microhabitats ranging from soil to under debris is essential for locating bombardier beetle at various lifecycle stages.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Bombardier beetle
Bombardier beetle is typically more active after dusk and during the night, so these periods are more suitable for observation. Their activity also tends to increase with higher humidity.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Bombardier beetle
Bombardier beetle prefers warm and humid environments but it can also be found in a variety of habitats with adequate shelter and prey availability. Avoid searching for them in extreme weather conditions as they are likely to be less active.
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How and Where Can You Find Bombardier beetle at Different Life Stages
Larva Bombardier beetle larvae can be found in damp, well-vegetated areas where they hunt. Inspect under stones, logs, or leaf litter where they may hide and search for prey.
Pupal During the pupal stage, bombardier beetle can be found in secluded spots in the soil or under debris. Gentle excavation in the soil of moist areas, may reveal the pupae.
Adult Adult bombardier beetle can be identified by their distinctive shape and behavior. They can be found on the ground, running rapidly in search of prey or under stones and logs during the day. At night, they may be attracted to lights, making them easier to locate.
Are Bombardier beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Bombardier beetle
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Larvae
Diets
Aphids, Caterpillars
Bombardier beetle, known for its unique defense mechanism, is an adept predator in both its larval and adult stages. It aggressively hunts down pests like aphids and caterpillars to feed itself and its offspring. A little-known fact about bombardier beetle is its ability to eject hot chemicals as a defense, which also aids in overpowering prey.
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