A Rove Beetle distinguished by having short elytra or wing covers, although they do not fly. They are found in and around decaying material, feeding on fly larvae and other insects.
It is a useful predator, most active at night, especially of adult New Zealand Flatworms and Slugs. When disturbed they adopt a threatening scorpion-like posture raising their rear end and opening their jaws. The abdomen releases a foul-smelling substance. It does not sting, but can give a painful bite.

The larval stage is mobile and just as predatory as the adult

 

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