Mycetophagus atomarius
This record describes Mycetophagus atomarius (species). Recorded family: Mycetophagidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 3.5 to 4.5 mm. This beetle has dark brown or blackish elytra which are heavily marked with orangey-yellow. The legs are yellow. Associated with the fruiting bodies of Daldinia concentrica on Ash and Hypoxylon fragiforme on Beech and may be found under bark where these fungi are present. Widely but thinly distributed across England and more locally in Wales and Scotland as far north as Glasgow. There are few records from the west country and not recorded from Cornwall. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Mycetophagidae
- Genus
- Mycetophagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Associated with the fruiting bodies of Daldinia concentrica on Ash and Hypoxylon fragiforme on Beech and may be found under bark where these fungi are present.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Larvae develop within the fungus.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widely but thinly distributed across England and more locally in Wales and Scotland as far north as Glasgow. There are few records from the west country and not recorded from Cornwall.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mycetophagus atomarius. 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 Mycetophagus atomarius (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Mycetophagus atomarius
What is Mycetophagus atomarius?
Mycetophagus atomarius is a species in the family Mycetophagidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Mycetophagus atomarius?
3.5 to 4.5 mm. This beetle has dark brown or blackish elytra which are heavily marked with orangey-yellow. The legs are yellow.
Where is Mycetophagus atomarius found?
Habitat: Associated with the fruiting bodies of Daldinia concentrica on Ash and Hypoxylon fragiforme on Beech and may be found under bark where these fungi are present.
When is Mycetophagus atomarius active?
Mycetophagus atomarius: seasonal activity - All year round..
What is the life cycle of a Mycetophagus atomarius?
Larvae develop within the fungus.