Malthininae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Elateroidea
Family: Cantharidae
Subfamily: Malthininae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Malthininae: //mælˈθɪnɪˌniː//

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Summary

Malthininae is a subfamily of soldier beetles with around 150 species in 4 genera. They are important pollinators and predators of small insects, characterized by their soft bodies and diverse habitats.

Physical Characteristics

Soft-bodied, straight-sided beetles that are 1.2-5 mm in size.

Identification Tips

Commonly known as soldier beetles due to a color pattern reminiscent of the red coats of early British soldiers; also referred to as leatherwings due to their soft elytra.

Habitat

Found in various terrestrial habitats, often near flowers for feeding.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution except for Australia; most diverse in Eurasia and North America.

Diet

Adults often feed on nectar and pollen, while larvae are predatory, feeding on eggs, small insects, and snails.

Life Cycle

Larvae are caterpillar-like, dark-colored, active, and covered in fine hairs; they hunt for small prey on the ground and in foliage.

Reproduction

Larger males exhibit mate choice for larger females, correlating body size with reproductive success.

Ecosystem Role

Predators of small insects which helps regulate their populations; adults pollinate plants.

Cultural Significance

Their common names reflect historical contexts (e.g., soldier beetles); they indicate healthy ecosystems.

Evolution

The oldest described member is from the Early Cretaceous, with evidence of their lineage present in amber.