Structural megadiversity in leaf litter predators - the head anatomy of Pselaphus heisei (Pselaphinae, Staphylinidae, Coleoptera)

The head anatomy of Pselaphus heisei (Pselaphitae) is described and documented. structural features are evaluated in comparison with findings presented earlier studies on the subfamily, a special focus correlations predacious habits groundplan Pselaphinae. We found tentorium, labrum, maxillary palps, shape head, system dorsal pits sulci highly variable within reflecting multiple transformations, including many homoplasious changes. following major characters identified as Pselaphinae: falciform mandibles; small mola; semiglobular neck; ventrolateral antennal articulation; steep clypeal region; setiform labial palpomere 3; tentorium nearly vertical main branches lacking laminatentoria; separation tentorial bridge from arms; fusion arms capsule; large brain placed posterior third head; triple cluster well-developed cephalic glands. last feature supports hypothesis that independent cases adaptations to myrmecophilous observed various lineages Pselaphinae were possible by re-programming already existing glands produce appeasement secretions. muscle apparatus P. similar what other staphylinoid groups, some exceptions, whereas it strongly modified myrmecophile Claviger testaceus . propose unparalleled megadiversity primarily linked life upper soil layers combined specialized carnivorous habits, agile or mechanically protected arthropods prey. Within group, have evolved, myrmecophily, termitophily, also deep caves, each unique morphological adaptations.