This family of beetles, known as the Elateridae, are commonly called click beetles for the distinctive clicking mechanism they possess. A slender spine on the prosternum can be snapped into a corresponding notch on the mesosternum, producing a sudden and audible click that propels the beetle into the air.
The Scarabaeidae is a large and diverse family of beetles characterised by robust, oval bodies, lamellate antennae with a fan-like club, and strong forelegs adapted for digging. Colours vary widely from dull brown to metallic, with many species exhibiting smooth, compact forms. Males of several groups show horns or other exaggerated structures used in competition.
Biology
Silphidae are medium to large beetles, often flattened and broad-bodied, with clubbed antennae and elytra that may be short, exposing several abdominal segments. Many species are black or dark-coloured, sometimes with orange or red markings. Members of the subfamily Nicrophorinae (burying beetles) are more compact, with strongly clubbed antennae and vivid banding.
The rove beetles are a large family of beetles, primarily distinguished by their short elytra that leave more than half of their abdomens exposed.
