Anthiinae

Anthiinae is a subfamily of ground beetles (family Carabidae) that comprises several genera, with the best-known being Anthia. The group is distributed mainly in the Old World tropics and subtropics, and has a strong representation in Africa, extending into parts of Asia and Australia.

Members of Anthiinae are generally large to very large beetles with robust bodies, long legs, and powerful mandibles. Their coloration is variable, ranging from glossy black or brown to metallic hues. They are primarily terrestrial predators, occupying open ground, leaf litter, or areas under logs and stones. Some species are active hunters during the day, while others are crepuscular or nocturnal.

Defensive adaptations are notable in many Anthiinae. Several species have a well-developed chemical defense, produced by pygidial glands, which they can spray when threatened. This defensive secretion helps deter would-be predators and contributes to their reputation as formidable enemies to surrounding arthropods.

Taxonomy within Carabidae is subject to revision, and the exact delimitation of Anthiinae and its internal tribes and genera has shifted with new morphological and molecular data. The subfamily is recognized as containing multiple genera grouped into several tribes, though classifications can vary among authorities.

Notable genera other than Anthia are recognized, but Anthia remains the archetypal representative of the subfamily. In summary, Anthiinae denotes a distinctive lineage of large, ground-dwelling predatory beetles notable for their size, ecological roles, and chemical defenses.