Heath Short Spur

Breeding takes place during the spring, larvae are present in the summer and the adults that emerge later on in the year overwinter, emerging to breed the following spring, completing the annual lifecycle (3). Adults are winged and are able to fly (3). It is believed that both the adults and larvae feed on plant matter, particularly seeds (3), and it is thought that adults occur at the roots of plants (4).

This ground beetle is a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan; the Species Action Plan that has been published aims to maintain current populations (3). English Nature has included this beetle in its Species Recovery Programme.

This ground beetle is black in colour with reddish legs (2). The outer edges of the wing-cases (elytra) are covered in fine hairs and have a number of depressed 'spots' (2).

Inhabits dry, sandy heathlands (4).

In Great Britain, this beetle occurs only in southern England; it has recently been recorded from the New Forest, Hampshire, and Wiltshire and Surrey (3). Historically it has been recorded from Berkshire, Glamorgan and Suffolk, and it once reached into Norfolk (3). In Europe it is known throughout central and southern areas, but is considered rare in its northern range (3).

Classified as Nationally Scarce in Great Britain (3).

The loss and fragmentation of heathland habitats, as well as unsuitable management of heaths resulting in the growth of scrub, are likely threats facing this species (3).

Anisodactylus nemorivagus is a species of ground beetle native to Europe.