Collops sp.

Malachius aeneus is also known as the scarlet malachite beetle. Adults occupy weedy fields and meadows, and are often found on the flowers of herbaceous plants. They are also known to predate other insects and their larvae on these flowers. Adults can usually be found from April through July.

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Melyridae
Species: Malachius aeneus

Photograph: © 2006 RKD Peterson
Date of Photograph: 28 May 2006
Location: Montana, Gallatin Co. (45o39'49" N 111o03'53" W)