Scarce Fungus Weevil
Platyrhinus resinosus
This record describes Platyrhinus resinosus (species). Recorded family: Anthribidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is truly an odd looking creature and could hardly be confused with anything else, except perhaps the Platystomos species. The mix of dark and light areas on the elytra may vary, but the general appearance does not - the 'face' is always lighter due to a covering of pale hairs. Also known as the Cramp-ball Fungus Weevil. This species is relatively easy to identify and is unlikely to be confused with anything else. However a photo is always helpful to confirm your record. June and July are peak times for the adult. The larvae develop inside the black fungus known as King Alfred's Cakes or Cramp Balls ( Daldinia concentrica ). It is not quite as scarce as its common name would suggest. British records come mainly from England around a line from the Humber to the Severn.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Anthribidae
- Genus
- Platyrhinus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Woodland.
Seasonal Activity
June and July are peak times for the adult.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae develop inside the black fungus known as King Alfred's Cakes or Cramp Balls (
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is not quite as scarce as its common name would suggest. British records come mainly from England around a line from the Humber to the Severn.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Platyrhinus resinosus. 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 Scarce Fungus Weevil (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Scarce Fungus Weevil
What is Scarce Fungus Weevil?
Scarce Fungus Weevil (Platyrhinus resinosus) is a species in the family Anthribidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Scarce Fungus Weevil found?
Habitat: Woodland.
When is Scarce Fungus Weevil active?
Scarce Fungus Weevil: seasonal activity - June and July are peak times for the adult..
What is the life cycle of a Scarce Fungus Weevil?
The larvae develop inside the black fungus known as King Alfred's Cakes or Cramp Balls (