Carabus auratus
This record describes Carabus auratus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
a member of the subgenus Tachypus Weber (4 spp. in Europe, one ranging into Siberia)
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Carabinae
- Tribe
- Carabini
- Genus
- Carabus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
native to Europe, introduced to North America (Boston 1940s) for gypsy moth control, established in New England
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Slugs, worms, cutworms, and other invertebrates
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Carabus auratus auratus Linnaeus 1760 auratus Latin 'golden'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Carabus auratus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Carabus auratus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Eric R. Eaton; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , Phillip Harpootlian , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Carabus auratus
What is Carabus auratus?
Carabus auratus is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Carabus auratus found?
Range: native to Europe, introduced to North America (Boston 1940s) for gypsy moth control, established in New England
What does Carabus auratus eat?
The diet of the Carabus auratus includes Slugs, worms, cutworms, and other invertebrates.