Ground Beetles

Carabidae

ground beetle

Predaceous ground beetle (Jim Jasinski, Ohio State University, Bugwood.org)

Ground beetle

Predaceous ground beetle (Llona L., Wikimedia Commons)

Identification

  • 1/16 to 1 3/8 inches long
  • most are black or dark red, although some are blue, brown, or green
  • typically have shiny/glossy/metallic sheen
  • very common in pest monitors

Nesting Habits

  • outdoors under logs, rocks, debris, etc.

Diet

  • prey on other arthropods

Significance

  • nuisance indoors
  • beneficial outdoors

IPM Recommendations

  • Minimize hiding areas near the foundation.
  • Seal cracks around the outside foundation wall.
  • Install tight-fitting door sweeps at the base of all exterior doors.
  • Vacuum beetles that enter buildings.
  • Change exterior lighting to sodium vapor bulbs.