Leiodidae (round fungus beetles)

The round fungus beetles (Leio­didae) are a large family (500 species) with worldwide distribution. 85 species are known to occur in Germany. All of them feed on fungi. The species of the tribe Leiodini live on subterranean fungi and are equipped with fossorial legs, whereas the tribe Agathidiini feeds on above-ground fungi (also on tree fungi). The species of the genus Agathidium are able to curl up into a ball if disturbed. Many subterranean species leave the soil at dusk and can be catched on glades and riverbanks by using a sweeping net.