Most species are neotropical, but there are a few in North America and one each in Europe and Japan.
A key to the subgenera of Clinidium is available here . On the pronotum, the paramedian grooves are replaced by basal impressions and discal strioles. The elytra have their striation reduced to 5 or less. The eyes and hind wings are reduced. Most species have two tibial spurs on the middle or hind legs.