Mecodema dux
Mecodema dux is a medium-bodied New Zealand endemic ground beetle that is found in the Ruahine Ranges, Taupo, Rangitikei and southwestern Hawke's Bay entomological regions. Diagnosis. Distinguished from other North Island "Mecodema" species by: Description. Length 19–24 mm, pronotal width 5–6 mm, elytral width 6–7.1 mm. Colour of entire body dark reddish-brown to matte black, coxae and legs reddish-brown. Natural History. A flightless and nocturnal predator of a variety of invertebrates on the forest floor. Further research is required.