Staphylinidae
Definition
Rove beetles. Recognised by their short elytra (wing covers) leaving the abdomen largely exposed. At carrion scenes, many are predatory on fly larvae; some are primary carrion feeders. They arrive early and remain across multiple decomposition stages.
- Common name
- Rove beetles
- Identifying feature
- Short elytra leaving abdomen exposed
- Role at carrion
- Mostly predatory on fly larvae; some primary feeders
- Arrival timing
- Early, persisting across multiple decomposition stages
Common questions
Why are rove beetles useful for postmortem interval estimation if most are predators, not feeders?+
Their arrival is closely tied to the presence of fly larvae they prey on, so their appearance and species succession still track the decomposition timeline, and their presence or absence helps corroborate estimates based on blow fly evidence.
How can Staphylinidae be told apart from other beetles at a scene?+
Their short wing covers exposing most of the abdomen is the clearest field feature, giving them an elongated, flexible-looking body distinct from beetles whose elytra cover the full abdomen.
Related terms
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- Skeletonisation Stage
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