DESCRIPTION

Identification: This suborder may be most easily recognized by the development of the hind coxae which separate the first visible abdominal sternum. In the other suborder (Polyphaga), the hind coxae do not completely separate the first visible abdominal sternum. In addition to this feature, Adephaga usually have the hind trochanters particularly well developed and projecting free from the femur. In Polyphaga the hind trochanters are usually less conspicuous. The presence of a well developed notopleural suture, while more difficult to appreciate, will identify this suborder. This suture is absent in Polyphaga.