Synchita fuliginosa
This record describes Synchita fuliginosa (species). Recorded family: Zopheridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance

Synchita fuliginosa (Synchita fuliginosa) is a species in the family Zopheridae, commonly known as ironclad beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Colydiinae, tribe Synchitini, suborder Polyphaga, superfamily Tenebrionoidea. This species belongs to the genus Synchita. As a member of class Insecta, phylum Arthropoda, it is part of the kingdom Animalia. Size: 1.8-3.0 mm. It is found in common under bark of dead hardwoods ; on tree bark infested with fungus, especially Endothia.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Tenebrionoidea
- Family
- Zopheridae (Ironclad Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Colydiinae
- Tribe
- Synchitini
- Genus
- Synchita
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
common under bark of dead hardwoods ( 6 ) ( 8 ) ; on tree bark infested with fungus, especially Endothia ( 9 )
Geographic Range
e. NA (NS-FL to SK-c.TX) / ne Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Adults eat fungus, including Endothia ( E. parasitica causes the Chestnut blight )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Synchita fuliginosa Melsheimer 1846
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Synchita fuliginosa. 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 Synchita fuliginosa (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Jim McClarin; Additional contributions by cotinis , Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Synchita fuliginosa
What is Synchita fuliginosa?
Synchita fuliginosa is a species in the family Zopheridae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Synchita fuliginosa?
1.8-3.0 mm
Where is Synchita fuliginosa found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | common under bark of dead hardwoods ( 6 ) ( 8 ) ; on tree bark infested with fungus, especially Endothia ( 9 ) |
| Range | e. NA (NS-FL to SK-c.TX) / ne Mex. - Map |
What does Synchita fuliginosa eat?
The diet of the Synchita fuliginosa includes Adults eat fungus, including Endothia ( E. parasitica causes the Chestnut blight ).
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