Insect · GBIF taxon 1077513
Figeater Beetle
Cotinis mutabilisAlso known as Fig Beetle, Green Fruit Beetle
Figeater beetles buzz loudly through summer gardens and fruit orchards with a heavy, uncoordinated flight. Their velvety metallic-green shells shimmer intensely in bright sunlight, a visual effect caused by microscopic structural layers in their cuticle. Adults gather in clusters to feed on soft, overripe fruits like figs and peaches, while their C-shaped grubs break down organic matter in rich soils and compost piles.
IridescentDay-activeGardens
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Ripe figs
- Peaches
- Tree sap
Predators
- Birds
- Lizards
- Small mammals
ThreatsPesticide use, loss of compost and mulch habitats
HabitatsGardens, orchards, urban landscapes, oak woodlands
Life span1 to 2 years (mostly as larvae)
Classification
- FamilyScarabaeidae
- SpeciesCotinis mutabilis
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Harmless to humans and safe to observe from any distance.
Responsible observation
- Observation: Approach fruit trees slowly in late summer to watch them feed in full sun.
- Garden Care: Clear fallen or damaged fruit to limit high concentrations around orchards.
Look-alike no rights reserved, uploaded by bgirardot · cc0
Close Relative (c) Thomas Koffel, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Thomas Koffel · cc-by
Subfamily Member (c) Katja Schulz, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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