Amara aenea, Common Sun Beetle

Common Name: Common Sun Beetle

With a length of 6.5 - 9mm, Amara arena, or the Common Sun Beetle, is one of many very similar Amara species; this is one of the most common with an obvious shiny brass/copper appearance. Its legs have black femora and brown tibiae. The scutellary pore is absent and it has fine striae. The antennae are black except for three pale basal segments.

It is found in dry habitats, including gardens, wasteland and grassland. It likes to sun itself and is often seen on bare ground. Most often seen between spring and summer, this ground beetle feeds on the developing seeds of grasses and is widespread and very common in Britain.

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