Bostrichoidea

Definition

A superfamily of beetles (Coleoptera) within the infraorder Bostrichiformia, characterized by larvae that typically bore into wood, stored products, or other dry organic substrates. The group includes several families of economic and ecological significance, notably the powderpost beetles, deathwatch beetles, carpet beetles, and skin beetles. Adults generally have a compact body form with clubbed antennae and often exhibit reduced elytral sculpturing.

Etymology

From Bostrichus (type genus, from Greek bostrychos 'curl of hair' or 'worm that eats wood') + -oidea (superfamily suffix)

Example

The superfamily Bostrichoidea includes the family Bostrichidae, whose larvae tunnel through seasoned timber and bamboo, and Dermestidae, whose larvae feed on dried animal materials such as museum specimens, hides, and woolens.

Related Terms

• Bostrichiformia
• Polyphaga
• Bostrichidae
• Dermestidae
• Ptinidae
• Endecatomidae
• powderpost beetle
• carpet beetle
• skin beetle
• deathwatch beetle

Usage Notes

Formerly broader in circumscription; some families once included (Anobiidae sensu stricto, Jacobsoniidae, Nosodendridae) have been reassigned to other superfamilies based on molecular phylogenetics. The superfamily is now more narrowly defined. Specialists distinguish Bostrichoidea from the related Cucujoidea and Cleroidea within Bostrichiformia. The common name 'bostrichoid beetles' is rarely used; family-level names are preferred in applied contexts.