common name: Soldier Beetle scientific name: Order Coleoptera,
family Cantheridae, many species, Chaubiognathus pennsylvanicus
size: 1/2" to 3/4" identification: Adults are long, narrow,
soft-bodied beetles, often orange or red with black or brown
wings. Both larvae and adults are easily identified by their
velvety covering. Wings are soft and parchment-like and donít
always reach the tip of the abdomen. habitat: Soldier beetles
like to do their hunting in yarrow, daisies, and other flowering
plants. feeding habits: Aphids and other small insects pests.
economic importance: Beneficial. natural control: None needed.
organic control: None needed. insight: Colorful and highly
beneficial insect that should be protected. Not seen that often
but worth knowing about.