Clown Beetle
Hololepta
Observed in Florida Canyon, Sta. Rita Mountains, Arizona, USA. 31 July 2013.
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Very distinctive genus of beetles: Patent leather look, large rectangular shape, flattened profile and forward projecting mandibles. These insects are associated with rotting plants, particularily cacti and agaves where they prey upon maggots and other insect larvae. The clinging mites use the beetle as conveyance, i.e. they are hitching a ride, between rotting plants where they two find their food supplies. Very popular with Flickr Photographers.