Cantharis fusca facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cantharis fusca |
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| Scientific classification | |
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| Phylum: | |
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Cantharidae
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| Genus: |
Cantharis
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| Species: |
C. fusca
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| Binomial name | |
| Cantharis fusca Linnaeus, 1758
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The Cantharis fusca is a type of soldier beetle. It is easy to spot because it has a body that is either red or orange, mixed with black. This beetle is quite common across much of Europe.
These beetles are usually about 10 to 15 millimeters long. They like to live in places like bushes, the edges of forests, and open meadows. Cantharis fusca beetles are hunters, and they mostly eat small insects.
Contents
Meet the Soldier Beetle!
The Cantharis fusca is a fascinating insect that belongs to the family of soldier beetles. These beetles are known for their soft bodies, which makes them different from many other hard-shelled beetles. They are important parts of their ecosystems.
What Does it Look Like?
This soldier beetle has a distinct look. Its body is mostly black, but its wing covers (called elytra) are a bright red or orange color. This color combination helps them stand out. They have long, slender bodies and antennae.
Where Do They Live and What Do They Eat?
You can find Cantharis fusca beetles in many parts of Europe. They prefer habitats with lots of plants. This includes grassy meadows, areas with bushes, and the edges of forests. They are often seen on flowers.
These beetles are predators. They hunt and eat various small insects. This helps to control insect populations in their habitats. They are active during the warmer months.
Amazing Larvae!
The young forms of the Cantharis fusca are called larvae. These larvae have black, hairy bodies. Just like the adult beetles, the larvae also eat small insects. They are very important predators in their early life stage.
One amazing fact about these larvae is how tough they are against the cold. They can survive very low temperatures. You might even see them crawling around on the snow during winter! This makes them unique among insects.
Images for kids
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Two Cantharis fusca beetles mating.
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