COLEOPTERA > POLYPHAGA > TENEBRIONOIDEA > Tenebrionidae

Tenebrionidae is a very diverse family represented in Britain by 48 species, many of which are synanthropic, often being found in cellars, outbuildings and stables. As a point of interest, Tenebrio can be interpreted as 'seeker of dark places', which aptly describes the favoured habitats and/or nocturnal lifestyle of most of these species.

Taxonomically they are separated into four distinct subfamilies.

Alleculinae has 8 very varied species, collectively known as comb-clawed beetles as the hind tarsi have combed claws with fine teeth. These particular beetles are all characterised by an oval body, threadlike antennae and relatively long legs. I believe that three of the British species are rare and two are primarily nocturnal. Isomira murina though is a relatively common diurnal flower feeding beetle that can be found in various habitats during the summer months.

Tenebrioninae is the largest subfamily with 23 species; a very mixed group in 12 tribes - too many to describe, but whilst a few are relatively common and widespread others are far more scarce or localised, and quite a number are pests of stored food products. The Helopini tribe includes three species all of which are nocturnal saproxylic beetles, Helops caeruleus and Xanthous pallidus inhabit coastal areas, whereas Nalassus laevioctostriatus occurs inland on damaged or decaying trees in woodland, as well as around the roots of heather on heaths and moorland. It's a medium-sized species, around 10mm long, with an elongate convex dark brown, slightly metallic, body; the whole dorsal surface of which is smooth, shiny and finely punctured.

Lagriinae has just two rather similar species, Lagria atripes and the slightly smaller (7-10mm) Lagria hirta, known as the Rough-haired Lagria Beetle. This species has yellow-brown, closely punctured wing cases, contrasting with black thorax, head, antennae and legs. The elytra are covered with dense, long, yellow pubescence, giving a golden glow. The eyes are deeply excised and particularly large in the male. I also read that the long terminal antennal segments indicate a male. It is a relatively common species in the south, favouring sandy soils.

Diaperinae has 15 species that are generally found in decaying wood, fungi or other vegetable matter.

Updated, Jan.25 (v.3)