Jacobsoniidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Staphylinoidea
Family: Jacobsoniidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Jacobsoniidae: /ˌdʒæ.kəb.səˈnaɪ.ɪd.iː/

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Summary

Jacobsoniidae are a family of tiny beetles belonging to Staphylinoidea, with around 28 described species in three genera. Their biology is largely unknown, and they inhabit mostly tropical islands, especially in the Indo-Australian region, with some species found in Florida.

Physical Characteristics

Members of this family have a small body size (0.7-2.1mm in length). Their bodies are narrow and are four times as long as they are wide. They are often a yellowish-brown in color.

Habitat

Larvae and adults live under bark, in plant litter, fungi, bat guano, and rotten wood.

Distribution

Members of this family have been found in Alabama, Florida, South America, Central America, Polynesia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and Asia.

Ecosystem Role

Primarily found in leaf litter or in rotting wood.

Evolution

Taxonomic position has long been controversial; originally placed in Dermestoidea, later considered Polyphaga incertae sedis, and now placed in Staphylinoidea, supported by wing venation and larval morphology.