Cleridae

Enoclerus ichneumoneus

Tillus elongatus tarsus

Trichodes ornatus on a flower

Necrobia rufipes

Thanasimus dubius larva

Cleridae, commonly known as checkered beetles, is a family of beetles characterized by their distinctive patterns and colors, which often include bright and contrasting hues. This family is part of the order Coleoptera, which encompasses all beetle species. Cleridae are found worldwide, with a significant diversity in habitats ranging from tropical to temperate regions. They play essential roles in their ecosystems, primarily as predators of other insect species, thus contributing to the biological control of pests.

Description

Cleridae species vary significantly in size, ranging from 3 to 25 mm in length. They are easily recognizable by their elongated bodies and the checkered patterns on their elytra (hardened forewings). These beetles often exhibit bright colors, including red, blue, yellow, and black, which serve as aposematic signals to predators about their potential toxicity or unpalatability.

Biology and Ecology

The biology of Cleridae is diverse, with most species being predacious both in their larval and adult stages. They primarily feed on other insects, especially beetles and moth larvae. Some species are known to be important regulators of bark beetles, making them beneficial in forest management and the control of pest species.

Cleridae undergo complete metamorphosis, with life stages including egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Larvae are typically elongated and somewhat flattened, with a well-developed head and mandibles for predation. Pupation usually occurs in the soil or within the wood where the larvae develop.

Distribution

Checkered beetles are globally distributed, with species richness highest in tropical regions. However, many species are also found in temperate zones. Their distribution is closely tied to the availability of their prey, with some species being more specialized in their dietary requirements than others.

Systematics and Classification

The family Cleridae is divided into several subfamilies, including Clerinae, Korynetinae, and others, which are further subdivided into numerous genera and species. The classification within the family is based on morphological characteristics such as the structure of the antennae, body shape, and coloration patterns.

Importance in Pest Control

Some Cleridae species are of significant importance in the control of pest insects, particularly those that damage timber and forest resources. For example, species of the genus Thanasimus are known predators of bark beetles, which are pests in forestry. The use of Cleridae in biological control programs has gained attention as an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.

Conservation

While many Cleridae species are common and not currently at risk, habitat destruction and changes in land use can threaten their populations. Conservation efforts are important to maintain the ecological roles these beetiles play, especially in natural pest control.