The Ochthebius From Western Palaearctic

Abstract

We have compiled all available information regarding the presence of Ochthebius species in supratidal rockpools in the western Palaearctic, distinguishing species typical of these habitats from those whose presence is occasional. Overall, there are 32 taxa (30 species and 3 subspecies) linked with coastal habitats, 21 of them restricted to supratidal rockpools. Information concerning their distribution, morphological identification, habitat preference and coexistence are highlighted, as well as further open questions that need to be addressed to clarify the ecology and evolution of water beetles in these extreme environments.