Paussinae

Paussinae is a subfamily of predatory ground beetles in the family Carabidae. This subfamily is distinguished by several unique morphological features, including a flattened body, modified antennae, and often iridescent coloration. The antennae are particularly noteworthy; they are typically lamellate or pectinate, and can be highly specialized in form, likely playing a role in mate recognition or detecting prey.

Species within Paussinae are found primarily in tropical and subtropical regions across the Old World. They are a relatively small subfamily, with several genera and a few hundred described species. Their behavior is often cryptic, and many species are associated with ants, living as myrmecophiles. Some Paussinae larvae are known to be inquilines within ant colonies, feeding on ant brood or adult ants.

The exact nature of the relationship between Paussinae and ants varies, with some species exhibiting more complex associations than others. Adults are typically nocturnal and are believed to feed on small invertebrates. Due to their secretive habits and remote habitats, the biology and ecology of many Paussinae species remain poorly understood, making them a subject of ongoing research in entomology. Their unique adaptations and ant associations make them a fascinating group within the diverse world of beetles.