The comb-clawed beetles (Alleculidae) are a family of medium-sized beetles of oblong to oval body shape. They can be found on branches which are overgrown with fungi, on flowers and on various trees. The adult beetles feed on plant or animal leftovers. The larvae feed on dry plant matter. A few species are parasites of solitary bees. Worldwide more than 2400 species have been described, thereof 19 from Germany.