Phloiotrya vaudoueri
This record describes Phloiotrya vaudoueri (species). Recorded family: Melandryidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Additional details | Males are slightly smaller than females, which reach a length of around 10 or 12 mm. Elongate and rather parallel-sided, the species is entirely dark brown or blackish but often with the elytra a little lighter than the forebody. |
| Legs | Legs and antennae pale to mid-brown. |
| Head | Head reflexed under the pronotum and entirely hidden from above. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features, then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. The species is associated with various broadleaf trees and is sometimes found under bark or in woodpiles. It can also be attracted to light. Adults occur over a relatively short period in the summer, beginning in June and continuing into August, they are nocturnal and may be seen on the surface of logs and trunks infested with fungi. Widespread in the southern half of Britain, though not particularly common. No additional images available for this species. |
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Melandryidae
- Genus
- Phloiotrya
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
The species is associated with various broadleaf trees and is sometimes found under bark or in woodpiles. It can also be attracted to light.
Seasonal Activity
Adults occur over a relatively short period in the summer, beginning in June and continuing into August, they are nocturnal and may be seen on the surface of logs and trunks infested with fungi.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain, though not particularly common.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phloiotrya vaudoueri. 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 Phloiotrya vaudoueri (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Phloiotrya vaudoueri
What is Phloiotrya vaudoueri?
Phloiotrya vaudoueri is a species in the family Melandryidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Phloiotrya vaudoueri?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Additional details | of around 10 or 12 mm. Elongate and rather parallel-sided, the species is entirely dark brown or blackish but often with the elytra a little lighter than the forebody. |
| Legs | Legs and antennae pale to mid-brown. |
| Head | Head reflexed under the pronotum and entirely hidden from above. |
Where is Phloiotrya vaudoueri found?
Habitat: The species is associated with various broadleaf trees and is sometimes found under bark or in woodpiles. It can also be attracted to light.
When is Phloiotrya vaudoueri active?
Phloiotrya vaudoueri: seasonal activity - Adults occur over a relatively short period in the summer, beginning in June and continuing into August, they are nocturnal and may be seen on the surface of logs and trunks infested with fungi..