Olisthaerinae

Thomson, C. G., 1858

Genus Guides

1

Olisthaerinae is a small of rove beetles (Staphylinidae) characterized by a 5-5-5 tarsal formula and morphological similarity to Phloeocharinae. The group is primarily associated with dead conifer bark . Only two are documented in North America: Olisthaerus megacephalus and O. substriatus, with a range extending from Alaska across Canada to New York. The of this subfamily remains poorly understood.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Olisthaerinae: //ˌɒlɪsˈθɛrɪniː//

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Identification

Distinguished from related by the tarsal formula of 5-5-5 (five tarsomeres on each leg). Morphologically similar to Phloeocharinae, requiring careful examination of tarsal segmentation for accurate classification.

Habitat

Under the bark of dead conifers.

Distribution

In North America: Alaska across Canada to New York. The occurs in and temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.

Similar Taxa

  • PhloeocharinaeMorphologically similar; distinguished by tarsal formula and other subtle characters

More Details

Taxonomic note

A new Vicelva and new Vicelva paradoxica were described from Washington in 1973, expanding the known diversity of the in North America.

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