As adult beetle, Trichodes apiarius (bee-eating beetle) can be found from June to August. It can reach a length of up to 15 millimetres and differs from Trichodes alvearius by its black elytra.
As can be seen in the pictures, the bee-eating beetle has a preference for umbelliferous plants. This plant family includes carrot and parsley as well as some popular ornamental plants such as the sea holly species (genus Eryngium).
The beetles not only eat nectar and pollen, they also seem to enjoy smaller insects.
The larvae live in the nests of some solitary bees or in the hives of the honey bee. They are said to feed on the larvae and pupae of these bees.
Origin/distribution: Asia, Europe, North Africa
Habitats: Forest margins, shrub borders, dry meadows, sand pits, the beetles are found from June to August preferably in warm and sunny locations in flowers, where they hunt small insects or eat pollen and nectar.
Categories: Beetles, Bugs & Cockroaches | Insects