interagisti

Interagisti is a small, lesser‑studied genus of ground beetles belonging to the family Carabidae. The genus was first described in the early 20th century by the entomologist H. O. Pielke in his work on Southeast Asian coleopteran fauna. Members of Interagisti are characterized by their elongated bodies, distinct groove patterns on the elytra, and a unique pair of male genital structures that differentiate them from closely related genera.

Taxonomically, Interagisti is placed within the subfamily Pterostichinae, though its precise phylogenetic position remains uncertain due to limited molecular data. The genus currently comprises around twelve described species, with the majority recorded from the Malay Peninsula, Borneo, and parts of the Philippines. Notably, Interagisti brunneus and Interagisti laevigata are the best‑known representatives, both exhibiting a dark brown coloration and a preference for moist leaf litter habitats.

Ecologically, species of Interagisti are primarily nocturnal predators, feeding on smaller arthropods and contributing to soil health by controlling pest populations. Their distribution in tropical forest ecosystems makes them sensitive to deforestation and habitat fragmentation; however, specific population studies are sparse. Conservation assessments have not yet been conducted for most species, so their vulnerability status remains unknown.

Future research is required to resolve the phylogenetic relationships of Interagisti within Carabidae, to catalogue undiscovered species, and to evaluate the conservation needs of these ground beetles in rapidly changing forest landscapes.