Rhizophagus dispar
This record describes Rhizophagus dispar (species). Recorded family: Monotomidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This beetle has a red shiny appearance with a broad dark band across the elytra. It feeds on fungi and decaying matter, the adult is also a predator of fly larvae. Once mainly a northern species, it is now being regularly recorded further south, and has been found in most of England and Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Monotomidae
- Genus
- Rhizophagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found under bark of various trees.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It feeds on fungi and decaying matter, the adult is also a predator of fly larvae.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Once mainly a northern species, it is now being regularly recorded further south, and has been found in most of England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Rhizophagus dispar. 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 Rhizophagus dispar (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhizophagus dispar
What is Rhizophagus dispar?
Rhizophagus dispar is a species in the family Monotomidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Rhizophagus dispar found?
Habitat: Found under bark of various trees.
What is the life cycle of a Rhizophagus dispar?
It feeds on fungi and decaying matter, the adult is also a predator of fly larvae.