Evening Stroll by Enmos

Photography • Macro • posted on May 03, 2005

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Description

Thanks for viewing !! :o) -- A Carrion beetle, Phosphuga atrata. I couldnt find an english common name for this one but in most languages this beetle is called something like Black Snaileater. Length: 10 - 16 mm. The body is flattened and black, differs from other carrion beetles by their streamlined and elongated head. They live in moist forests where there is an abundance of snails. Contrary to other carrion beetles this species feeds on snails. First the beetle bites the snail causing it to retreat into its shell, then the beetle releases digestive juices into the snails shell. These digestive juices digest the snail into an eatable mush. Hope you like :o) - Thanks for all your wonderful comments on my last upload, "Tiny Hopper" !! -- Many thanks, Jeroen