Larvae from Field Requires ID Help

Geoff F · #1 (**permalink**) 29-09-2011, 06:07 PM

I was searching for insects in a hedge while the farmer was inspecting his crop, which was just emerging, when he turned over a stone and found this creature. He didn't recognise it so asked me; but I'm no wiser than him on this one.

S. Devon, today. The field previously grew cereals and something similar has been planted again.

I'm assuming it is some sort of larvae but can't offer any suggestions about ID. I placed it onto a page of my notebook for the photos; so the blue lines are 8 mm apart.

Any help appreciated.

poschiavanus · #2 (**permalink**) 29-09-2011, 06:22 PM

I think its a Staphylinid beetle larva. The urogomphi ('horns' at posterior end) appear to be segmented. There are similar larval images of Ocypus spp. on Koleopterologie.de.

Beyond that you'd probably need to refer to one of the Klausnitzer larval volumes of Die Käfer Mitteleuropas to get any further.

Geoff F · #3 (**permalink**) 29-09-2011, 07:32 PM

That seems to be on the correct lines, thanks for the help.

Probably can't get to species level easily but at least I know roughly where I am on this one.

Searching around I did find a book on identification of Staphylinid larvae - in Russian. And mention of a RES article in volume 118 but haven't been able to get any further with that.

I did find what appeared to be an exact match for what was tentatively suggested to be Devil's Coach Horse larvae but that was merely a suggestion from someone who was rather uncertain himself.

So I think I will stick with what you have suggested.