Erledillidae

Erledillidae is a family of small, often minute, beetles belonging to the superfamily Cucujoidea. They are characterized by their small size, typically ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 millimeters in length, and their distinctive body shape, which is often elongated and flattened. The family is known for its diverse range of species, with over 1,000 described species worldwide.

The larvae of Erledillidae are often associated with fungi, particularly species of the genus Claviceps, which are known to infect grasses and other plants. This association has led to the family's common name, "clavicipitid beetles." The larvae feed on the fungal spores produced by the Claviceps species, which are often toxic to other organisms.

The adults of Erledillidae are typically small, dark-colored beetles with a smooth, shiny exoskeleton. They are often found in grasslands and other habitats where their fungal hosts are present. The adults are not typically associated with any particular host plant or animal, and they feed on a variety of organic materials, including decaying plant matter and fungi.

Erledillidae is a relatively small family of beetles, but it plays an important role in the ecosystem by controlling the populations of certain fungal species. The family is of interest to entomologists and mycologists alike, and ongoing research continues to shed light on the biology and ecology of these fascinating beetles.