Megatoma undata
This record describes Megatoma undata (species). Recorded family: Dermestidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
4 to 6 mm. Black with distinctive white markings on the pronotum and elytra. Freshly emerged specimens are initially brown. The typical habitat of the adults is around dead wood although they may also be found on flowers e.g. Crataegus or Malus in the spring and early summer when they may be pollen feeders. In Britain this species is mainly found south of the Humber. Notable B.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Dermestidae (Carpet Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Megatominae
- Tribe
- Megatomini
- Genus
- Megatoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
The typical habitat of the adults is around dead wood although they may also be found on flowers e.g. Crataegus or Malus in the spring and early summer when they may be pollen feeders.
Seasonal Activity
April and May
Additional species information
Recorded status
In Britain this species is mainly found south of the Humber. Notable B.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Megatoma undata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Megatoma undata (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Megatoma undata
What is Megatoma undata?
Megatoma undata is a species in the family Dermestidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Megatoma undata found?
Habitat: The typical habitat of the adults is around dead wood although they may also be found on flowers e.g. Crataegus or Malus in the spring and early summer when they may be pollen feeders.
When is Megatoma undata active?
Megatoma undata: seasonal activity - April and May.