The Prostomidae are a small, specialised family of beetles found worldwide, comprising small to medium-sized, elongated beetles characterised by forward-pointing (prognathous) mandibles and conspicuous jugular protuberances on the front of the head. The entire family comprises only two extant genera (Prostomis and Dryocora) with approximately 42 species. Members of this family are associated with dead wood: both larvae and adults are found primarily in fallen trunks, where the larvae feed on decaying wood, particularly the rotten heartwood of thick trunks. In the Czech Republic, they are among the extremely rare saproxylic species associated with old deciduous forests with an abundance of thick dead wood. Their hidden way of life deep within the red rot of deciduous trees means they escape the notice of casual observers, and an encounter with them is always a small celebration for an entomologist.

Number of Species:

Family Card

Prostomis mandibularis