Cardiophorus is a genus within the Elateridae family, known as click beetles. Species in this genus exhibit the characteristic clicking mechanism of their family, which helps them escape from predators and right themselves if overturned. The larvae are commonly referred to as wireworms and primarily live in the soil. They feed on plant roots and decaying organic matter. Some Cardiophorus larvae are known to be predatory, feeding on small soil-dwelling invertebrates.