Definition of Ground beetle

Carabidae is a large family, with more than 20,000 species worldwide (approximately 2,200 of which reside in North America). Most species are carnivorous, and some will run swiftly to catch their prey. Although there is some variation in their body shape and coloring, most are shiny, black (some are metallic), and have ridged elytra (wing covers). Ground beetles in the genus Brachinus are commonly known as bombardier beetles; they are noted for their defensive ability to squirt a jet of hot foul-smelling liquid from their abdomens. Ground beetles in the subfamily Cicindelinae are known as tiger beetles. Unlike most of the other species of Carabidae, which are nocturnal, the tiger beetles are active diurnal hunters, and often brightly coloured. All species except the more primitive Paussinae, have a groove on their front tibiae (leg) bearing a comb of hairs, for cleaning their antennae. Common habitats are under the bark of trees, under logs, or amongst rocks or sand by the edge of ponds and rivers.