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Eyed Click Beetle

Alaus oculatus

Photo by CynthiaMHori
Published on Project Noah
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44.6356, -85.7583

Field Notes

Description:

Click beetles are flattened, elongate, beetles that are curved at the ends. They are black or brown in color. This beetle is marked with prominent oval eye spots on the pronotum and mottled gray wing covers. The Eyed Click Beetle has huge false eyespots that probably deter potential predators. This beetle ranges in size from 1 to 1 ½ inches long and is the largest click beetle. The antenna are close to the eyes and are saw toothed or comb like.

Notes:

On their underside, they have a click mechanism that aids them in defense and righting themselves when they are turned upside down. They release this mechanism with an audible "click" which causes the head to snap back with such force that they can be propelled into the air as much as several inches.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (1)

It is very similar to a big Firefly that I found sometimes in Brazil. But it has black spots instead of green lights. Look here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ligiartendpictures/
Photographed
PublishedJune 29, 2011

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