Mycetophagus pluriguttatus
This record describes Mycetophagus pluriguttatus (species). Recorded family: Mycetophagidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
elytral markings may be reduced or absent The posterior third of the elytra is usually free from spots, sometimes a very small one is seen near the apex. Type Locality: San Jose, California
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Mycetophagidae (Hairy Fungus Beetles)
- Tribe
- Mycetophagini
- Genus
- Mycetophagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
w NA (BC-CA to MT) - Map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Mycetophagus pluriguttatus LeConte 1856
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mycetophagus pluriguttatus. 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 pluriguttatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joyce Gross; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Mycetophagus pluriguttatus
What is Mycetophagus pluriguttatus?
Mycetophagus pluriguttatus is a species in the family Mycetophagidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Mycetophagus pluriguttatus?
4.3-5.8 mm
How do you identify Mycetophagus pluriguttatus?
elytral markings may be reduced or absent The posterior third of the elytra is usually free from spots, sometimes a very small one is seen near the apex.
Where is Mycetophagus pluriguttatus found?
Range: w NA (BC-CA to MT) - Map