(= HELODIDAE, CYPHONIDAE)

Code QC209999

Moderate to small (3-10 mm), oblong to ovoid polyphagan beetles with a large, strongly deflexed head, 11-segmented non-clubbed antennae, a broad prothorax, large projecting fore coxae and lobed 4th tarsal segments. The underside of the head carries two sharp genal ridges, one below each eye, and these rest against the fore coxae when the head is fully deflexed. The hind coxae have a transverse excavation behind to receive the hind femur.

Adult scirtids are found on vegetation beside water. The larvae live in ponds, marshes, bogs and tree-holes, or else in rotten wood. Scirtids are most abundant and diverse in the cool temperate regions of Australia, though they occur in the north also. Around 70 Australian species are currently recognised.

Reference:

Lawrence, J.F. and Britton, E.B. (1991) Coleoptera. pp. 543-683. In: CSIRO, Insects of Australia. Volume 2. Melbourne University Press, Carlton, Victoria.