Lathrobiini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lathrobiini: /læˈθroʊbiˌaɪnaɪ/

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Summary

Lathrobiini is a diverse tribe of rove beetles recognized for their ecological importance and evolutionary diversity, containing eight subtribes with distinct characteristics and ecological roles.

Physical Characteristics

Members of the tribe Lathrobiini are characterized by their elongated bodies, distinctive three-segmented antennae, and unique traits associated with their predatory behavior.

Identification Tips

Identification can be aided by examining the morphology of the body shape, antennae segment count, and coloration patterns specific to each subtribe.

Habitat

Lathrobiini are commonly found in a variety of habitats, including leaf litter, decaying wood, and under stones in forested and moist environments.

Distribution

This tribe is distributed widely across multiple continents, with representatives in various ecosystems.

Diet

Lathrobiini species are primarily predatory, feeding on small invertebrates and detritus, contributing to the decomposition process in their habitats.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Lathrobiini involves complete metamorphosis, including egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, typically with a relatively short larval phase.

Reproduction

Reproductive strategies include laying eggs within or near decaying organic matter to provide food sources for the larvae upon hatching.

Predators

Natural predators of Lathrobiini may include other larger beetles, birds, and small mammals that feed on insects.

Ecosystem Role

Lathrobiini play a critical role in their ecosystems as decomposers and predators, helping to manage invertebrate populations and recycle nutrients.

Collecting Methods

• Pitfall traps
• Hand collecting
• Leaf litter sampling
• Berlese funnels

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Kill jars with ethyl acetate
• Drying and pinning
• Freeze preservation

Evolution

Lathrobiini has undergone significant evolutionary changes, leading to the recognition of several subtribes reflecting divergences within the lineage as indicated by phylogenetic studies.

Similar Taxa

• Paederinae
• Staphylinidae
• Rove beetles

Misconceptions

There may be a misconception that all rove beetles are harmful or detrimental to crops, but many are beneficial in controlling pest populations.

Tags

• Beetles
• Coleoptera
• Rove Beetles
• Lathrobiini
• Insect Diversity