Phloeocharinae

Erichson, 1839

Genus Guides

4

Phloeocharinae is a of rove beetles (Staphylinidae) characterized by distinctive abdominal tergal combs and procoxal . The group contains five and six in North America, with the genus Phloeocharis dominating the European fauna. Members are primarily saproxylic, inhabiting damp forest environments under bark and in leaf litter. The of most species remains poorly known.

Dytoscotes by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.Dytoscotes pacificus by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.Dytoscotes pacificus by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phloeocharinae: /ˌfliːəˈkærɪniː/

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Identification

Procoxae lack a mesal groove. Abdominal tergites IV and V each bear a pair of distinctive cuticular combs. Hypopharynx is distinctive. are 5-5-5 segmented.

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Habitat

Generally found in damp places, including leaf litter and under bark. Saproxylic in forests, specifically associated with dead wood and tree bark microhabitats.

Distribution

North America: five and six . Europe: genus Phloeocharis with 12 species, mostly Mediterranean; Phloeocharis subtilissima widespread throughout Europe. Phloeocharis subtilissima introduced to North America (Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada) via port city.

Ecological Role

Saproxylic; associated with decaying wood and bark . Forms part of the secondary forest pest under tree bark.

Human Relevance

Phloeocharis subtilissima documented as introduction to North America via international shipping through port of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Serves as case study for port-mediated introduction of Coleoptera.

Similar Taxa

  • OlisthaerinaeRelated of Staphylinidae historically treated alongside Phloeocharinae in taxonomic revisions; distinguished by different morphological characters and ecological preferences.

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Sources and further reading