Oxytelini

Oxytelini

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Oxytelini: /ɒksɨˈtɛlɪnaɪ/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Anotylus rugosus (29284433568) by Donald Hobern from Copenhagen, Denmark. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.
Georgiy Jacobson - Beetles Russia and Western Europe - plate 15 by see in description. Used under a Public domain license.
Oxytelus sculptus by Unknown authorUnknown author. Used under a Public domain license.
Oxytelus sculptus Jacobson by Georgiy Jacobson. Used under a Public domain license.
Oxytelus laqueatus (Marsham, 1802) by URSchmidt. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Oxytelus laqueatus (28286371867) by Donald Hobern from Copenhagen, Denmark. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Summary

Oxytelini is a tribe of spiny-legged rove beetles with approximately 130 species in 11 genera, known for their predatory habits and diverse habitat preferences.

Physical Characteristics

Oxytelini are characterized by their spiny legs, which are typical of rove beetles.

Identification Tips

Key identification features include the shape and size of the pronotum and elytra, as well as the presence of spiny legs.

Habitat

They are commonly found in various terrestrial habitats, often associated with organic matter such as decaying wood or leaf litter.

Distribution

This tribe is represented in various regions, with around 130 species reported, including several adventive species.

Diet

Oxytelini are predatory beetles, primarily feeding on small invertebrates.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Details on reproduction may vary by species, but generally involves laying eggs in suitable habitats for larvae to develop.

Predators

Specific predators of Oxytelini beetles are not commonly noted, but they may face predation from larger insectivores.

Ecosystem Role

As predatory beetles, they play a role in controlling pest populations and contributing to nutrient cycling.

Collecting Methods

  • Light traps
  • Hand collecting
  • Soil sampling

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol preservation
  • Pinning specimens
  • Drying specimens

Evolution

The tribe Oxytelini is part of a larger evolutionary lineage within the family Staphylinidae that exhibits various adaptations to their predatory lifestyle.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Oxytelini beetles with other non-predatory beetle species due to their appearance.

Tags

  • Oxytelini
  • Rove beetles
  • Staphylinidae
  • Predatory beetles
  • Entomology