Mycetophagus populi
This record describes Mycetophagus populi (species). Recorded family: Mycetophagidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

4.0 to 4.5 mm. Distinguished from other members of the genus by the dense and very fine dorsal punctures and pubescence, and the form of the terminal segment of the maxillary palp which is distinctly broader than the penultimate segment. The shape is long-oval with the head much narrower than the pronotum and the pronotum and elytra separately rounded, colour variable but usually pale orange-brown, usually with the head a little darker than the elytra, and with two broad transverse paler bands to each elytron; one across the basal quarter and across the apical third although they vary in size and intensity. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required, and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Adults occur in open deciduous woodland, wooded parkland and on large solitary trees in grassland areas. They usually occur under loose bark and among decaying damp wood in hollows on stumps. Most frequently recorded during the winter and spring. The species is thought to be univoltine with pupation occurring late in the year and the resulting adults overwintering and reproducing the following spring. In the UK it is widespread across the south of England and the midlands though absent in the West Country and known from only a very few records in the south of Wales, it is very infrequently recorded and classified as nationally scarce. 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
Adults occur in open deciduous woodland, wooded parkland and on large solitary trees in grassland areas. They usually occur under loose bark and among decaying damp wood in hollows on stumps.
Seasonal Activity
Most frequently recorded during the winter and spring.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The species is thought to be univoltine with pupation occurring late in the year and the resulting adults overwintering and reproducing the following spring.
Additional species information
Recorded status
In the UK it is widespread across the south of England and the midlands though absent in the West Country and known from only a very few records in the south of Wales, it is very infrequently recorded and classified as nationally scarce.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Mycetophagus populi. 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 populi (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Mycetophagus populi
What is Mycetophagus populi?
Mycetophagus populi is a species in the family Mycetophagidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Mycetophagus populi found?
Habitat: Adults occur in open deciduous woodland, wooded parkland and on large solitary trees in grassland areas. They usually occur under loose bark and among decaying damp wood in hollows on stumps.
When is Mycetophagus populi active?
Mycetophagus populi: seasonal activity - Most frequently recorded during the winter and spring..
What is the life cycle of a Mycetophagus populi?
The species is thought to be univoltine with pupation occurring late in the year and the resulting adults overwintering and reproducing the following spring.
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