Omaliinae

MacLeay, 1825

Tribe Guides

4

Omaliinae is a of rove beetles (Staphylinidae) comprising over 100 arranged in seven tribes: Anthophagini, Omaliini, Eusphalerini, Hadrognathini, Corneolabiini, Coryphiini, and Aphaenostemmini. typically range 1.5–6 mm in length and are somewhat broader than most staphylinids, with longer that lack serial punctures. The subfamily has a minimum fossil age of approximately 100 million years based on Cretaceous amber records. In North America, 55 genera and more than 200 are known.

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Pronunciation

How to pronounce Omaliinae: //ˌoʊˌmæl.iˈaɪ.ni//

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Identification

Members of Omaliinae can be distinguished from other Staphylinidae by their relatively broader body form and longer . Diagnostic features include: with a broad neck; only slightly broader at the apex; of five articles; and in almost all , a pair of ocelli near the base of the head. In a few genera, the elytra cover the entire . Larvae have strap-shaped maxillary mala and lacking a prostheca.

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Habitat

and larvae occur in leaf litter, decaying fruits, moss, and under bark of dead trees. Adults of several and larvae of a few species have been observed in flowers.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution with strong representation in the Holarctic and Oriental regions. In North America, 55 and more than 200 are recorded. The is well-represented in China, the Himalayan region, Central Asia, and Europe.

Diet

Many and are believed to be predatory, feeding on freshly killed small insects. Some species appear to be phytophagous, damaging flowers. A few species are saprophagous, feeding on decaying fruits.

Ecological Role

Predatory contribute to decomposition processes and control of small arthropods in forest floor and soil . Phytophagous and saprophagous species participate in nutrient cycling through consumption of plant material and decaying organic matter.

Sources and further reading