This beetle appears to have short elytra exposing several abdominal segments suggesting it could be something else. Is it alive as it seems to have an unnatural posture of the legs. Where was it found exactly?
Another comment. Dark insects such as this beetle should be photographed against a dark background so that the insect is correctly exposed to reveal its morphological features. I have tried lightening it to give details of its structure but this did not work. I think the beetle could be a Carphurus see page 175 my book.
The beetle was under our carport and flew into the car when door was opened. Caught it and photographed it later as did not have time to do it then. By that time the insect was dead. Thanks for the hint on photographing them on a dark background will try to remember this in the future. The white specks on the insect are wood dust from the bark.
Family Melyridae, but it's not possible to be sure what genus from a photo. Could be Carphurus or Balanophorus - the first seems more common in our region.
Describe how you intend to use these images and/or audio files and your request will be sent to the author for consideration.
Your request has been successfully submitted to the author for consideration.
2,166,933 sightings of 20,573 species in 6,800 locations from 11,955 contributors
CCA 3.0 | privacy
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of this land and acknowledge their continuing connection to their culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.