A black elytra and an orange thorax give this beetle a resemblance to a variety of fireflies. The most obvious physical difference is the presence of two black lines or spots on that orange thorax instead of one central spot seen in virtually every kind of firefly. The orange head has black eyes and a black line between them. Its satiny black elytra are soft and flexible, not stiff like other types of beetles, so it is often referred to as a leather-wing. The Two-lined Leather-wing is a member of the Soldier Beetle family and does not light up.
Note: The above text is EXCLUSIVE to the site www.InsectIdentification.org. It is the product of hours of research and work made possible with the help of contributors, educators, and topic specialists. If you happen upon this text anywhere else on the internet or in print, please let us know at InsectIdentification AT gmail DOT com so that we may take appropriate action against the offender / offending site and continue to protect this original work.
General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
* MAP NOTES: The territorial heat map above showcases (in red) the states and territories of North America where the Two-lined Leather-wing Beetle may be found (but is not limited to). This sort of data is useful when attempting to see concentrations of particular species across the continent as well as revealing possible migratory patterns over a species' given lifespan. Some insects are naturally confined by environment, weather, mating habits, food resources and the like while others see widespread expansion across most, or all, of North America. States/Territories shown above are a general indicator of areas inhabited by the Two-lined Leather-wing Beetle. Insects generally go where they please, typically driven by diet, environmental changes, and / or mating habits.