Histeridae (predators)
From Pestinfo-Wiki
| Vernacular names | |
|---|---|
| • Deutsch: | Stutzkäfer |
| • English: | clown beetles |
| • Français: | histeridés |
Platysoma parallelum (click on image to enlarge it)
Author(s): David T. Almquist, University of Florida
Source: IPM Images
Author(s): David T. Almquist, University of Florida
Source: IPM Images
Histeridae (predators) (clown beetles)
This family contains around 4,000 species of small to medium-sized beetles. The adults and larvae feed on decaying organic matter and also on dung. Many are predators of other insects. For example, species of the genus Platysoma are predators of bark beetles, others prey on fly larvae or on stored product pests. Several species are regarded as important biological control agents.
The hind wings of the adults are often truncated, leaving the two apical segments exposed. They are hard, mainly black, brown and shiny. The antennae are strongly clubbed.
The following genera are currently entered under this family:
