stenusten

Stenusten is a genus of beetles belonging to the family Staphylinidae, commonly known as rove beetles. These beetles are characterized by their slender, elongated bodies and short elytra (wing covers) that leave most of the abdomen exposed. The genus Stenusten is primarily found in the Afrotropical region.

Species within Stenusten are typically small to medium-sized beetles. Their diet and ecological roles can vary depending on the specific species, but many rove beetles are predatory, feeding on other small invertebrates like mites, springtails, and insect larvae. They are often found in leaf litter, soil, or decaying organic matter, where they hunt for their prey.

The taxonomic classification of Stenusten places it within the subfamily Paederinae, a diverse group of staphylinids. Research on Stenusten species often focuses on their morphology, distribution, and bionomics. Due to their cryptic habits and small size, many species are not frequently encountered, and their full diversity and ecological significance are still subjects of ongoing scientific investigation. The genus name itself, Stenusten, derives from Greek words meaning "narrow" and "stretched," referring to the characteristic body shape of these beetles.