The present volume of the series 'Freshwater Fauna of Central Europe' for the first time encompasses the entire West Palearctic (Europe, North Africa, Western Asia). It contains comprehensive information on the morphology, biology, ecology, and distribution of the Scirtidae (marsh beetles). In addition to characterizing the family, the individual genera, species groups (not present in all genera), and species are presented in detail.

Richly illustrated identification keys lead to the individual taxa. Many features are depicted and measured (over 1000 individual illustrations, mostly photos of micro-preparations, some SEM images, 8 color plates). This results in reliable identification, enabling ecological and zoogeographical statements.

This work is indispensable for limnologists, as well as entomologists, biogeographers, and zoologists dealing with freshwater fauna.