Rove Beetle

Why in News?

An Indo-German research team discovered 15 species of rove beetles in the waterfalls and forests of Arunachal Pradesh.

Key Facts

  • Family: Staphylinidae
  • Order: Coleoptera
  • One of the largest beetle families.
  • Usually elongated with shortened wing covers (elytra).
  • The exposed abdomen gives them a distinctive appearance.
  • Many species can raise their abdomen in a scorpion-like defensive posture.
  • Found in:
    • Leaf litter
    • Soil
    • Under bark
    • Compost
    • Dung
    • Carrion
    • Fungi
    • Nests of social insects

Ecological Importance

  • Many species are predators of other insects.
  • Help in decomposition and nutrient cycling.
  • Some species are associated with agriculture and biological control.

Prelims Pointer: Rove beetles belong to Staphylinidae, not Scarabaeidae.