Variable Rove Beetle vs Red-Brown Click Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Variable Rove Beetle | Red-Brown Click Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Philonthus varians | Ampedus sanguineus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Elateridae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 11-16 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Predators | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Central Asia | Europe, Northern Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Variable Rove Beetle
A small but abundant rove beetle highly variable in elytral coloration, ranging from entirely black to reddish-brown. It is one of Europe's most common staphylinids in agricultural settings.
Did You Know?
Population studies have shown densities of over 100 individuals per square meter in well-managed agricultural fields.
Red-Brown Click Beetle
A handsome click beetle with vivid red elytra and a black head and thorax. Larvae develop in rotting conifer wood.
Did You Know?
Despite its blood-red colour, it is harmless—the coloration is thought to mimic toxic beetles to deter predators.