Calosoma scrutator, also known as the fiery searcher and caterpillar hunter,[1] is a species of ground beetle belonging to the genus Calosoma, subgenus Acalosoma. This beetle can be as large as 35 millimetres (1.4 in) long.[2] The distribution of this species is relatively widespread, but it is nonetheless common in North America.[3] The adult beetle is known to excrete a foul-smelling oil when it is handled. The oil has been described as smelling similar to rotten milk or rancid olive oil.[4]
| Calosoma scrutator | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Insecta |
| Order: | Coleoptera |
| Family: | Carabidae |
| Genus: | Calosoma |
| Species: | C. scrutator |
| Binomial name | |
| Calosoma scrutator (Fabricius, 1775) | |
References
External links
Data related to Calosoma scrutator at Wikispecies- Calosoma scrutator on bugguide.net
- Article and picture on the University of Arkansas website
- Calosoma Scrutator (Fiery Searcher) on YouTube
