This beetle has the classic ground beetle shape, color and habits. It is black in color and has a long oval-shaped body with powerful mouthparts and relatively short legs. The antennae and legs have a reddish tinge and the elytra have striations. It is about 3/4 inch long. It was identified to genus by experts at Bug Guide.
It is widely distributed. It comes to lights in summer and fall scavenging dead insects and damaged corn seed. This beetle was photographed at night in the wetlands with the aid of lights.
Over 60 species belong to this genus. Most carabids are omnivorous (feeding on both plants and animals) and use a wide range of foods although some species are specialists. It feeds on live prey, carrion and plant material. Ground beetles are occasionally a nuisance indoors by their presence. Homeowners may confuse these beetles for cockroaches, carpet beetles, woodboring beetles or some other household pest.
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