
First Irish Records of the Seed-Beetle Harpalus (Amblystus) Honestus (Duftschmid, 1812) (Coleoptera: Carabidae) from Skellig Michael, Páirc Náisiúnta Na Mara, Co. Kerry
Posted on 25 August 2025
The ground beetle Harpalus honestus (Duftschmid, 1812) (Coleoptera: Carabidae) was collected from Skellig Michael in 2023 and 2024, Co. Kerry, the first Irish records. The beetle is a thermophilous, xerophilous species of fast-draining or dry habitats. Evidence is adduced to demonstrate its preference for montane situations and its southern temperate European distribution. It is suggested the species is a post-glacial relict whose narrow environmental preferences limit its distribution in Ireland.