Violet Ground Beetle
Carabus violaceus
This record describes Carabus violaceus (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of the largest species in the UK, measuring about 20-30mm in length. It is similar to Carabus problematicus but the elytra of Carabus violaceus are smoother with fewer dimples and ridges. Often found by day under logs and stones. Most of the year, but may hibernate in the coldest periods. Emerges to hunt slugs and other insects at night. Common and widespread over much of Britain.
Wikipedia reference for Carabus violaceus: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carabus_violaceus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Carabidae
- Genus
- Carabus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found by day under logs and stones.
Seasonal Activity
Most of the year, but may hibernate in the coldest periods.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Emerges to hunt slugs and other insects at night.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread over much of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Carabus violaceus. 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 Violet Ground Beetle (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Violet Ground Beetle
What is Violet Ground Beetle?
Violet Ground Beetle (Carabus violaceus) is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Violet Ground Beetle found?
Habitat: Often found by day under logs and stones.
When is Violet Ground Beetle active?
Violet Ground Beetle: seasonal activity - Most of the year, but may hibernate in the coldest periods..
What is the life cycle of a Violet Ground Beetle?
Emerges to hunt slugs and other insects at night.