Latiodinae

Latiodinae is a subfamily of beetles belonging to the family Scarabaeidae, commonly known as scarab beetles. This subfamily is characterized by a relatively small number of described species, though their taxonomic placement has seen some revision over time. Historically, some genera now placed within Latiodinae may have been classified elsewhere.

The members of Latiodinae are generally considered to be crepuscular or nocturnal, with adults often observed feeding on decaying organic matter or fungi. Larval stages are typically found in soil or decaying wood, where they also consume organic material. While not as widely studied as some of the larger scarab subfamilies, research into Latiodinae focuses on their ecological roles, evolutionary relationships, and geographic distribution.

Geographically, Latiodinae species are found in various parts of the world, with a notable diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. Specific habitat preferences can vary, but they are often associated with forested areas or regions with significant amounts of decomposing plant material. Due to their often cryptic nature and relatively low abundance, many species remain poorly documented. Further research is needed to fully understand the biodiversity and ecological significance of this beetle subfamily.