Ecology of carrion beetles (Coleoptera, Silphidae) in Karelia

There are 11 species of carrion beetles (Silphidae) on the territory of Karelia. The objective is to study environmental characteristics of carrion necrophilic beetles in Karelia (habitat distribution, seasonal dynamics, search activity). The largest number of species, a total of 10 common bugs, was observed in the open types. Numerous types of carrion beetles have similar biotopical signs revealed in both northern (Karelia) and central Europe (Poland, Czech Republic). Gravedigger beetles demonstrate a change of seasonal activity, which helps to reduce competition for limited resources and at same time remain major tissue utilizers. A research on marking and recapture of beetles was carried out. For a period of three years, the beetles were caught and marked by cuts on shards. It was revealed that a part of the species population N. investigator and N. vespilloides (1 %) survives a year and remains living for the next one. Survived species demonstrated a change of morphometric parameters (increased weight). Carrion beetles move actively in search of food and find new carcass or return to baits from a distance of 150 m.