Reprinted with minor alterations from Field Studies 6 (1984), the journal of the Field Studies Council. Over 4000 different species of beetles occur in Britain. Their huge diversity in form, behaviour and ecology make them a daunting group to identify for the first time. This key will aid non-specialists to identify all of the families of British Beetles, of which there are nearly 100 in total. The guide includes ecological notes, and an extensive bibliography which directs the reader to species identification if required.