About Goldsmith Beetle
A beautiful golden-yellow scarab beetle with a metallic luster and fuzzy underside. It is attracted to lights on warm summer nights.
Did You Know?
Its genus name Cotalpa means golden shield referring to its remarkably bright metallic golden coloration.
How to Identify Goldsmith Beetle
Goldsmith Beetle (Cotalpa lanigera) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 20-26mm.
Goldsmith Beetle Habitat
Goldsmith Beetle is found in orchards habitats, particularly across North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Goldsmith Beetle Diet and Feeding
Goldsmith Beetle feeds on plant roots, typically during its larval stage. Root feeders can affect plant health and are sometimes considered agricultural pests.
Where Is Goldsmith Beetle Found?
Goldsmith Beetle can be found in North America, where it inhabits orchards environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Goldsmith Beetle can be found
Is Goldsmith Beetle Dangerous?
Goldsmith Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Goldsmith Beetle Role in Nature
Goldsmith Beetle is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Goldsmith Beetle
What does Goldsmith Beetle look like?
The Goldsmith Beetle typically measures 20-26mm.
Where is Goldsmith Beetle found?
The Goldsmith Beetle is found in North America and typically inhabits orchards environments.
What does Goldsmith Beetle eat?
The Goldsmith Beetle feeds on plant roots.
Is Goldsmith Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Goldsmith Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Goldsmith Beetle?
Its genus name Cotalpa means golden shield referring to its remarkably bright metallic golden coloration.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Goldsmith Beetle (Cotalpa lanigera). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/goldsmith-beetle
MLA:
"Goldsmith Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/goldsmith-beetle.