Korynetinae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Korynetinae: /ˌkɔrəˈnɛtɪneɪ/

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Summary

Korynetinae is a subfamily of checkered beetles known for their association with the decomposition of vertebrate corpses. They are characterized by their unique morphology and feeding habits, playing an important role in the ecosystem as scavengers and predators.

Physical Characteristics

Generally elongated and oval in shape, Korynetinae range in length from 3 to 24 millimetres (0.12 to 0.94 in). Their bodies are covered with bristly hairs and can display ornate color patterns, including red, yellow, orange, or blue. They possess a unique tarsal formula of 5–5–5, with legs that may have lobed subsegments, and lack eversible vesicles on their abdomen.

Identification Tips

Identification of Korynetinae can be done by examining their elongated bodies, bristly hairs, and color patterns. They have a distinct tarsal formula of 5–5–5 and lack eversible vesicles, which differentiates them from similar families like Melyridae.

Habitat

Korynetinae are commonly found in association with the decomposition of vertebrate corpses, particularly fish and mammals. They inhabit moist environments where carrion is present.

Distribution

Korynetinae are cosmopolitan, with species primarily associated with the decomposition of vertebrate corpses and primarily found in the Old World, especially in the African savanna. There are no endemic species of Korynetinae identified in the New World.

Diet

Korynetinae primarily feed on proteinaceous remains, such as bones and skin, and may also prey on saprophytic insects.

Life Cycle

The lifecycle duration can vary significantly, generally from 35 days to over 3 years, influenced by temperature and the lifecycle of their prey. They follow a holometabolous life cycle: egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Female Korynetinae lay between 28 and 42 eggs at a time, typically in environments conducive to food supply for the larvae. The eggs are often laid in decaying organic matter.

Ecosystem Role

Korynetinae play a role in the decomposition food web, helping to break down organic matter, which contributes to nutrient cycling.

Economic Impact

Some species within Korynetinae may occasionally infest stored food products, impacting stored product entomology.

Collecting Methods

• Net capture from cadavers or decaying organic matter
• Using baited traps with carrion

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol
• Freezing for short term storage

Evolution

Korynetinae are considered a distinct subfamily within the family Cleridae, with various taxonomic classifications occasionally debated among experts.

Similar Taxa

• Melyridae
• Cleridae

Misconceptions

There is a common misconception that Korynetinae are restricted to the New World, while most species are actually cosmopolitan and primarily found in the Old World.

Tags

• Korynetinae
• beetles
• decomposers
• carrion feeders
• entomology