Sharp Tailed Darkling Beetle

Eleodes acuticauda

These beetles have fused elytra, making them completely flightless. Also known as desert stink beetles, when threatened, they perform a "headstand", raising their abdomen into the air and releasing a foul smelling secretion. These insects are scavengers and detritivores, acting as decomposers in western North America.

Recorded lineage

kingdomAnimaliaphylumArthropodaclassInsectaorderColeopterafamilyTenebrionidaegenusEleodesspeciesEleodes acuticauda

Observed

Jun 25, 2026

Location

Los Angeles, California