The Rove Beetles are a very large family with over 46000 species worldwide, nearly 1000 of which occur in Britain, ranging in size from 25mm (1inch) to less than 1mm.
Unlike most other beetles, the abdomen of Staphylinidae is mostly exposed due to the very short elytra (the hard, modified forewings that normally form a protective cover over the beetle's body). Despite their appearance, most species are still capable of flight, and the well-developed hind wings neatly folded under the shortened elytra in a manner that would put any origami master to shame.
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