Staphyliniformia

Staphyliniformia is a large and diverse infraorder of beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera. This group is characterized by a wide range of body shapes and lifestyles, encompassing some of the most common and ecologically significant beetle families. A defining feature, though not universal, is a tendency towards a flattened body and relatively short elytra that expose several abdominal segments. This morphology is often associated with active, predatory habits and the ability to navigate confined spaces.

The infraorder includes families such as Staphylinidae, the rove beetles, which are the largest beetle family and are found worldwide in nearly every terrestrial habitat. They are known for their slender bodies and often elongated abdomens, and many are important predators of small invertebrates. Another prominent family within Staphyliniformia is the Histeridae, or clown beetles, which are small, compact, and often shiny black beetles that are frequently found in decaying organic matter, preying on other insects. Other notable families include the Silphidae (carrion beetles), Lampyridae (fireflies), and Scarabaeidae (scarab beetles, though some classifications place this family elsewhere).

Ecologically, Staphyliniformia plays crucial roles in decomposition, nutrient cycling, and predation. Many species are essential in controlling populations of pests and disease vectors. Their diverse feeding habits range from scavenging on carrion and dung to preying on other insects, mites, and nematodes. The group's vastness and ecological importance make it a subject of continuous study in entomology, with new species and ecological interactions regularly being discovered.