Bettles
Members of this family get their common name from their general
habit of occurring on the ground, usually beneath something. They are
often mistaken for cockroaches when they crawl into structures, but
have hardened front wings unlike the cockroach. Ground beetles are
terrestrial and typically found on the ground, usually under something
such as stones during the daytime. They may sometimes climb trees in
search for food and may be seen during the daytime. However, most
species are nocturnal.
Many ground beetle species are attracted to lights at
night in great numbers. They typically enter structures by crawling
under door thresholds or they will fly in through open windows or
doors. Ground beetles are a nuisance pest. They give off a very
unpleasant odor when handled or crushed. Most species are beneficial
predators, feeding on other insects. Some may feed on dead organic
materials.
Adult ground beetles vary greatly in size from as small
as 1/16" up to 1 3/8" long. They have elongated bodies, somewhat
flattened in form. They are typically a very shiny black in color,
although some species display patterns or bright colors. Their legs are
usually long and slender. Antennae are threadlike, inserted between the
eyes and the base of the mandibles.
Not much is known about their biology. Eggs are laid in specially
constructed cells. The beetle undergoes a complete life cycle, with
pupation taking place under the ground. Their life cycle takes about 1
year with adults capable of living for 2 - 4 years.
Allgood Pest Solutions provides Pest Control and Termite Control
for Georgia including Atlanta, Marietta, Kennesaw, Alpharetta, Roswell,
Duluth, Suwanee, Peachtree City, Fayetteville, Dalton, Macon, Dublin,
Sandersville, Vidalia, Douglas, Savannah, McRae, Milledgeville,
Swainsboro, Brunswick, St. Mary's.
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