Bledius
Bledius
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Staphylinoidea
- Family: Staphylinidae
- Subfamily: Oxytelinae
- Tribe: Blediini
- Genus: Bledius
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Bledius: /ˈble.di.us/
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Summary
Bledius is a genus of spiny-legged rove beetles within the family Staphylinidae, with at least 90 species reported in specific regions and over 450 species recognized worldwide. They are adapted to live in wetland areas, feeding on algae and creating protective tunnels for their eggs and larvae.
Physical Characteristics
Spiny-legged rove beetles; adults exhibit distinctive spiny legs.
Identification Tips
Identification can be aided by examining the leg structure and habitat preferences, as well as the specific morphology of the exoskeleton.
Habitat
Near fresh and saline wet areas, especially in environments where algae are present.
Distribution
Worldwide distribution, particularly common in most of North America; over 450 species globally.
Diet
Adults harvest algae from wet surfaces and store it in living chambers in the mud or sand.
Life Cycle
Females lay eggs in special tunnels that they excavate, where larvae are also reared.
Reproduction
Reproductive behavior involves creating chambers that can be sealed during high tide or periods of high water for protection of the offspring.
Ecosystem Role
May play a role in algal consumption and nutrient cycling in wetland habitats.
Collecting Methods
- Sampling from wetland areas
- Collection by hand from algae-covered surfaces
Preservation Methods
- Pinning
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying specimens
Similar Taxa
- Staphylinidae
- Oxytelinae
- Rove beetles
Misconceptions
Bledius beetles are often mistaken for other types of beetles due to their small size and habitat; they are not harmful to humans.
Tags
- Bledius
- Rove beetles
- Staphylinidae
- Wetland insects
- Marine insects