Chlaeniini
Chlaeniini
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Adephaga
- Family: Carabidae
- Subfamily: Harpalinae
- Supertribe: Pterostichitae
- Tribe: Chlaeniini
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chlaeniini: /klæɪˈniː.aɪˌnaɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
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Summary
Chlaeniini is a diverse tribe within the Carabidae family, comprising over 1,000 species and more than 20 genera, primarily found in tropical regions of the Old World. They play a crucial role in their ecosystems as predators.
Physical Characteristics
Members of the Chlaeniini tribe are characterized by having elongated bodies and a hardened exoskeleton, typical of ground beetles.
Identification Tips
Look for distinctive coloring patterns and body shapes which vary among the different genera within Chlaeniini.
Habitat
Chlaeniini beetles are commonly found in terrestrial habitats, including forests, grasslands, and close to water bodies.
Distribution
Chlaeniini has a global distribution, with a significant presence in the Old World tropics where they are most diverse.
Diet
These beetles are primarily carnivorous, preying on other insects and small invertebrates.
Life Cycle
Chlaeniini beetles undergo complete metamorphosis, with distinct egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Reproduction involves laying eggs in the soil or beneath organic matter, where larvae can find food once they hatch.
Predators
Their natural predators include birds and some larger insects.
Ecosystem Role
Chlaeniini beetles play an important role in the ecosystem as predators of pests and scavengers.
Economic Impact
They can have both positive and negative impacts; while they control pest populations, certain species may be considered nuisances.
Collecting Methods
- Pitfall traps
- Hand collecting
- Sweep netting
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying and pinning
- Storage in insect boxes
Evolution
Chlaeniini has evolved over millions of years, adapting to various terrestrial environments and ecological niches.
Similar Taxa
- Carabidae
- Harpalinae
- Pterostichidae
Misconceptions
Some people confuse Chlaeniini beetles with other ground beetles that may not share the same ecological role or physical characteristics.
Tags
- Chlaeniini
- ground beetles
- Carabidae
- insect diversity
- ecological role