Giant bombardier beetle

Giant bombardier beetles were a species of giant beetle.

Description
The bodies of bombardier beetles generally grew to be around in length.

Biology
Like most species of beetle, these creatures lacked good eyesight or hearing. Because of this, bombardiers primarily relied upon their tactile and taste senses. The latter was done by means of their antennae.

Combat
As a defense mechanism, bombardier beetles were able to expel clouds of reddish acidic vapor from their abdomens that had a horrible smell. The sound of them expelling this acid could be deafening, potentially stunning nearby creatures. They could also emit a cloud of fire to protect themselves, a few times per day.

Ecology
Bombardier beetles were often solitary creatures.

Diet
Unlike many beetles, bombardier beetles were solely carnivores, feeding mostly on carrion and gathering carcasses as places to lay their eggs.

Habitats
Bombardier beetles were typically found to dwell above-ground in forests  of warm climate regions.

On Toril they were known to inhabit parts of Cormanthor's forests. They were also found in Dragon's Eye in the Spine of the World.

Usage
The substances inside bombardier beetles could be harvested from dead specimens and used create small explosives.

Appearances

 * Adventures
 * Dungeon #20: "The Ship of Night" • Dungeon #87: "The Raiders of Galath's Roost"
 * Video Games:
 * Icewind Dale • Neverwinter Nights • Baldur's Gate: Siege of Dragonspear