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Common red soldier beetle

Common red soldier beetle

Rhagonycha fulva

A species of Rhagonycha, Also known as Soldier beetle

An introduced insect in North America, the common red soldier beetle spends the majority of its brief lifespan mating. Commonly seen in pairs in the summer, the insect is often found in flower gardens and meadows where it feeds on pollen, nectar, and aphids. It is also a primary pollinator of hogweed.

General Info About Common red soldier beetle
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Attributes of Common red soldier beetle
Colors
Black
Red
Orange
Habitat
woodland edge; garden; meadow; grassland; hedgerow; park
Adult Food Sources
Small insects, aphids, pollen, nectar, various invertebrates
Larva Food Source
Small invertebrates, aphids, insect eggs, insect larvae, mites
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Common red soldier beetle is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Predators of Common red soldier beetle Larvae
Birds, spiders, rodents, other predatory insects
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Predators of Adult Common red soldier beetle
Birds, spiders, rodents, other predatory insects
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Interesting Facts About Common red soldier beetle
Despite its tiny size, common red soldier beetle possesses a unique mechanism to create a deterrent chemical from its blood, warding off predators in a defensive reflex.
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Scientific Classification of Common red soldier beetle
Tips for Finding Common red soldier beetle
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Youth Habitat of Common red soldier beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Common red soldier beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Meadows and Fields
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How Can You Attract Common red soldier beetle
There's no specific trap food for common red soldier beetle given its carnivorous nature at the adult stage, preying on other insects. However, if one wishes to attract common red soldier beetle, they could potentially focus on creating an environment that attracts their prey.
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Habitat Preferences of Common red soldier beetle Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of common red soldier beetle are typically laid in the soil near host plants where larvae can find food upon hatching. As larvae, common red soldier beetle prefer to reside in soil or leaf litter, often preying on small invertebrates. Pupae of common red soldier beetle generally develop in the same soil habitat, taking advantage of the sheltered environment. Adults are commonly found on flowers, especially during the evening, as they feed on pollen and nectar. Searching for common red soldier beetle at various stages requires sifting through soil and leaf debris for eggs, larvae, or pupae and visiting flowering plants for adult specimens.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common red soldier beetle
The best time to find adult common red soldier beetle is usually during the daytime, particularly in the late spring to early summer when they are most active and when mating occurs.
Are Common red soldier beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Common red soldier beetle
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Larvae
Purpose
Feed Itself
The common red soldier beetle is a natural combatant in the microscopic warfare against garden pests. Engaging in predatory behavior both in their larval and adult stages, they predominantly feed on aphids and small insects to sustain themselves. Unlike many insects which exhibit predatory behavior to feed their offspring or entice mates, the common red soldier beetle preys to nourish its own body. Little-known fact: while in their larval form, they are voracious and will often be found under loose bark pursuing their preferred prey.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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