Blue Ground Beetle vs Twelve-Lined Whirligig Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Blue Ground Beetle Twelve-Lined Whirligig Beetle
Scientific Name Carabus intricatus Gyrinus minutus
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Carabidae Gyrinidae
Size 24-36mm 3-4 mm
Habitat Woodlands Ponds & Lakes
Diet Predators Omnivores
Regions Europe Europe, Northern Asia
Conservation Near Threatened Least Concern

Blue Ground Beetle

A large brilliant blue beetle with intricately sculptured elytra. It is a nocturnal predator of slugs and snails in ancient woodlands.

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Did You Know?

It is strongly associated with ancient woodlands and its presence is used as an indicator of forest ecological health.

Twelve-Lined Whirligig Beetle

One of the smallest European whirligig beetles, found in clean ponds and lakes. It is often overlooked due to its diminutive size.

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Did You Know?

Its flattened, oar-like hind legs beat up to 60 times per second to maintain its rapid surface swimming.