Ant-associated-beetles
Guides
Myrmedonota
Myrmedonota is a genus of rove beetles (Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) first described by Cameron in 1920. The genus was first recorded from Mexico in 2013 with the description of two new species, M. shimmerale and M. xipe. Members of this genus exhibit myrmecophilous associations, aggregating toward agitated ants and potentially preying on them. The genus is suggested to be more diverse in the New World than previously recognized, though its taxonomy remains in a state of confusion.
Pella
Pella is a genus of rove beetles (family Staphylinidae) in the subfamily Aleocharinae, tribe Lomechusini. These beetles are myrmecophilous, meaning they live in association with ants. The genus was established by Stephens in 1833 and contains species that are adapted to life within ant colonies, where they exploit resources and protection provided by their hosts.
Physea
Physea is a genus of ground beetles (Carabidae) established by Brullé in 1835. It belongs to the subfamily Paussinae and tribe Ozaenini, a group known for specialized morphological adaptations. The genus contains five described species distributed in the Americas. Members of Ozaenini, including Physea, are often associated with ant colonies or termite nests, though specific ecological details for Physea remain poorly documented.
Thorictini
Thorictini is a tribe of carpet beetles (family Dermestidae) established by Erichson in 1846. Members of this tribe are small, compact beetles adapted to specialized microhabitats. The tribe is relatively species-poor compared to other dermestid tribes and includes genera such as Thorictus. These beetles are primarily known from the Palearctic and Afrotropical regions.