Euoplocnemus

Euoplocnemus is a genus of beetles belonging to the family Carabidae, which includes ground beetles. The genus was first described by the French entomologist Pierre François Marie Auguste Dejean in 1825. Euoplocnemus species are characterized by their distinctive body shape and coloration, with many species exhibiting a metallic green or blue iridescence. They are typically found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with a few species occurring in the Southern Hemisphere.

The genus Euoplocnemus includes approximately 150 species, with the majority found in Europe and North America. These beetles are generally small to medium-sized, with adults ranging from 5 to 15 millimeters in length. They have a robust body structure, with a pronotum that is typically wider than long and a smooth, shiny elytra. The antennae are 11-segmented, and the legs are relatively short and sturdy.

Euoplocnemus species are known for their predatory behavior, feeding on a variety of small insects and other invertebrates. They are often found in grasslands, meadows, and other open habitats, where they can be encountered by both entomologists and casual observers. The genus is of particular interest to taxonomists and evolutionary biologists due to its diverse range of species and the insights they provide into the evolution of ground beetles.