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Puncture-headed harp ground beetle

Puncture-headed harp ground beetle

Ophonus puncticeps

A species of Ophonus

The species is black coloured with brownish legs and antennas. It is phytophagous and is 6.5–9 millimetres (0.26–0.35 in) long.

General Info About Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
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Attributes of Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
Open; sandy ground near coast
Adult Food Sources
Insects, seeds, carrion, fungi, plant matter
Larva Food Source
Other insect larvae, small invertebrates, eggs of insects, aphids, mites
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
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 Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
In Ireland, it was believed to be found in Belfast, where it was first found in 1902. At first, it turned out to be Harpalus puncticollis, a species described by Paykull in the same year. But, later on it was confirmed that it was actually Ophonus rufibarbis.
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Life Cycle of Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
Egg The egg phase for puncture-headed harp ground beetle begins with the laying of oval or round eggs, often in concealed locations near food sources. The embryo develops inside, the color often shades of white or cream, and these eggs are minuscule.
Larva The larva that emerges is worm-like with a segmented body, lacking true legs and wings. Puncture-headed harp ground beetle's larva has a voracious appetite, actively feeding to fuel its growth, which involves several molts and size increase.
Pupal In this stationary phase, puncture-headed harp ground beetle transforms within a protective casing. As a pupa, it's inactive externally, yet intense differentiation occurs, with tissues reorganizing into adult structures.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult puncture-headed harp ground 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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Predators of Puncture-headed harp ground beetle Larvae
Birds, frogs, toads, rodents, spiders
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Predators of Adult Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
Birds, reptiles, small mammals, larger arthropods, amphibians
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Interesting Facts About Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
Puncture-headed harp ground beetle can create a chemical defense spray from their abdomen, consisting of acids to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
Tips for Finding Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
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Youth Habitat of Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
Since puncture-headed harp ground beetle is a beetle from the family Carabidae, which includes many ground beetles, trap food might include small invertebrates, seeds, or substances that mimic the smell of rotting organic matter to attract them.
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Habitat Preferences of Puncture-headed harp ground beetle Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of puncture-headed harp ground beetle often dwell in soil or leaf litter where they can find ample prey, so searching through these substrates especially in cultivated fields and grassy areas will be likely to uncover them. Adult puncture-headed harp ground beetle are best sought on the ground of similar habitats; however, they may also be encountered on crop plants during the night when they are more active. In these distinct environments, one must be prepared to search at appropriate times or conditions, such as at night for adults or by carefully sifting through soil or leaf litter for larvae.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
The best time to find puncture-headed harp ground beetle would typically be at night since many ground beetles are nocturnal. Alternatively, searching during dusk or dawn might also be effective when puncture-headed harp ground beetle is likely to be active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
Puncture-headed harp ground beetle is likely to be more active in warm, damp weather conditions since these conditions are generally favorable for beetles. Dry, cold weather might make puncture-headed harp ground beetle harder to find since it may seek shelter or become less active.
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How and Where Can You Find Puncture-headed harp ground beetle at Different Life Stages
Larva Puncture-headed harp ground beetle larvae are predatory and can be found in the soil or under stones, logs, and leaf litter. Look for them by carefully turning over such objects and sifting through the soil or debris.
Pupal Puncture-headed harp ground beetle pupae are immobile and are usually buried in the soil. Finding them involves gentle excavation in areas where larvae have been found, looking for the distinctive pupal cases.
Adult Puncture-headed harp ground beetle adults are typically found on the ground, hiding under rocks, leaves, or debris during the day. They can also be caught using light traps at night or by searching with a flashlight.
Are Puncture-headed harp ground beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Puncture-headed harp ground beetle
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Predators of Pests
Seed Dispersal
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Larvae
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Aphids, Caterpillars
Puncture-headed harp ground beetle is an industrious hunter, primarily in its adult and larval stages. It prowls through the underbrush and soil with a singular focus on feeding itself. Favoring a diet rich in aphids and caterpillars, it is an unsung hero in regulating these pest populations. Its specialized mandibles allow it to effortlessly capture and consume prey, providing a natural check against infestations.
Seed Dispersal
Puncture-headed harp ground beetle is recognized for inadvertently aiding in seed dispersal. As the insect forages, it might move seeds from one place to another. While not specialized in this task, its activities result in seeds being distributed across a broader area, enhancing plant propagation opportunities.
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