Leiodidae

Definition

A family of small to minute beetles (Coleoptera) comprising approximately 3,800 described species worldwide, commonly known as round fungus beetles for the globular body shape typical of many members, though some genera are more elongate. Most species are mycophagous, with adults and larvae feeding on fungal fruiting bodies, spores, or subterranean mycelia; a minority are carrion feeders, predators of other arthropods, or commensals in mammal nests. Antennal clubs are present in many species, and the family exhibits considerable morphological diversity despite its generally compact size.

Etymology

From Greek leios (smooth) + -idae (family suffix), referring to the often smooth, rounded body surface.

Example

The leiodid genus Agathidium, famous for its species named after political figures, consists of tiny round fungus beetles that feed on slime molds and are frequently collected by sifting forest leaf litter.

Synonyms

• round fungus beetles (common name)

Related Terms

• Coleoptera
• Staphylinoidea
• mycophagy
• saproxylic
• fungivore
• Coleoptera families
• beetle morphology

Usage Notes

Leiodidae was historically treated as a subfamily of Staphylinidae or Silphidae but is now firmly established as a distinct family within Staphylinoidea. The common name 'round fungus beetles' applies well to globose genera like Agathidium and Leiodes but poorly to elongate forms such as some Anisotoma; specialists generally prefer the family name. The family is diverse in temperate forests and caves, with many undescribed species in tropical regions. Larval stages are often poorly known compared to adults.