TaxonHub

Black Ground Beetle

Abax parallelepipedus

Abax parallelepipedus is a large ground beetle species endemic to Europe, characterized by its elongated, dark body and predatory lifestyle in forest ecosystems.

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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Temperate deciduous and mixed forests, woodland edges, leaf litter, and forest floor environments across Central and Southern Europe, typically at elevations between 0-1,500 meters

Ecological Role

Essential predator in forest ecosystems, controlling populations of smaller invertebrates, contributing to nutrient cycling and maintaining ecological balance

Morphology

SKIN COAT Predominantly black or dark brown, smooth exoskeleton with slight metallic sheen
LIMBS WINGS Strong, well-developed walking legs adapted for ground movement, reduced wing functionality typical of ground beetles
HEAD SENSORY Large compound eyes, prominent mandibles, long sensitive antennae for detecting prey and environmental cues
BODY STRUCTURE Large, elongated ground beetle, typically 18-22 mm in length, with a robust exoskeleton and parallel-sided body shape

Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Francisco Welter-Schultes

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Related Species in Carabidae

Harpalus rufipes

Bembidion quadrimaculatum

Bembidion tetracolum