Family overview
Generally dark, fast-running, predatory beetles with long legs and prominent mandibles. Most are nocturnal and hide under rocks/logs by day.
Major predators of garden pests — highly beneficial. Bombardier beetles famously eject boiling chemical spray.
At a glance
Family facts.
Distribution
Worldwide
Habitat
Terrestrial · Soil
Approx. species
40,000
Notable members
Bombardier beetles (Brachinus), tiger beetles (Cicindelinae), caterpillar hunters (Calosoma)