Abstract
The phoretic first instar larvae of Meloe (Lasiomeloe) olivieri and Meloe (Micromeloe) decorus are described; larvae of both palaearctic subgenera were previously unknown. A comparative analysis of morphological characters of these taxa with other subgenera is included. Distribution, sexual and oviposition behaviour, and other eco‐ethological remarks on olivieri are provided as well as taxonomic notes on both subgenera.