Information: Meloe erythrocnemus, described by Pallas in 1782.
Meloe erythrocnemus is a medium to large-sized blister beetle, typically measuring between 10 and 25 mm in length. Its body is robust and strongly convex, with a metallic black to dark blue coloration and a notably shiny surface. One of the most distinctive features of this species is its reddish-colored legs, which are reflected in its species name ("erythrocnemus" meaning "red-legged").
Body length: 10 - 25 mm
Peak activity: (December) February - May
Remarks: Meloe erythrocnemus has a broad distribution across the southern Palaearctic region. Its range extends from the Tien Shan Mountains in western China, through Central Asia and the Middle East, into southeastern Europe—including Turkey, Greece, and the western Balkans—and further west into central and southern Italy, Sicily, and parts of North Africa. In North Africa, it has been recorded in northern Tunisia, northern Algeria, and northern and central Morocco. The species typically occurs in regions with a Mediterranean or sub-Mediterranean climate and is considered relatively widespread within this range, although it is not commonly collected.
Meloe erythrocnemus typically inhabits dry, warm, and open habitats, often in hilly or submontane regions. It is commonly found in xeric grasslands, steppe-like areas, rocky or stony slopes, and sparsely vegetated meadows. The species is also associated with Mediterranean and sub-Mediterranean ecosystems, thriving particularly in regions with a high degree of sun exposure and minimal tree cover. Observations have recorded its presence at elevations up to 1350–1400 meters, such as in the Antalya Province of Turkey. Adults are frequently encountered on flowering plants, especially from the families Asteraceae and Apiaceae, which serve both as food sources and as platforms where larvae await contact with their bee hosts.
Distribution: Albania, Algeria, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, China (Sinkiank, Tibet), Croatia, Greece, Iran, Italy, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, Morocco, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, Uzbekistan,
Zoogeographic region: Palearctic
Taxonomic classification:
Material examined (& observation):
Italy 
Sicily
Trapani Province
Nature Reserve Zingaro
Scopello env.
(GPS) 
Altitude 330 m a.s.l. |
Our observation period: March ~ May 
Sampling Methods: in grassy vegetation 
Italy
