Australian Beetles

Of the 30,000 species that may occur in Australia, only 20,000 are scientifically described. Some 1500 species may occur in the Sydney region.

Families with large numbers of species include:

• Curculionidae (weevils): the largest family (6000 species)
• Scarabaeidae (scarabs, dung beetles, chafers): 3000 species
• Chrysomelidae (leaf beetles): 3000 species
• Carabidae (ground beetles): 2500 species
• Staphylinidae (rove beetles): 1600 species
• Tenebrionidae (darkling beetles): 1500 species
• Cerambycidae (longicorn beetles): 1200 species
• Buprestidae (jewel beetles): 1200 species

Beetle Habitat

Beetles can be found in almost all available habitats, including in water.

Terrestrial beetles are found:

• In soil and under rocks
• On or in flowers, leaves, fruits and seeds
• In leaf litter
• Under tree bark
• In rotting wood
• On animal carcasses
• In foodstuffs such as grains
• In nests of other animals

Aquatic beetles can be found in a range of watery habitats from temporary puddles to mountain streams, lakes and even brackish or muddy habitats. Some species may even be found in the intertidal zone by the sea.