Synchita undata
This record describes Synchita undata (species). Recorded family: Zopheridae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The pale tan or buff elytra are marked with a darker patterning which no doubt help to camouflage this beetle against bark and in shadowy areas. The present opinion appears to be that it is associated with sooty bark disease on Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), caused by the ascomycete fungus Cryptostroma corticale. It's a fairly recent discovery in Britain, apparently now common around London and probably under-recorded. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Zopheridae
- Genus
- Synchita
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Often found on the trunks of Sycamore.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The present opinion appears to be that it is associated with sooty bark disease on Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), caused by the ascomycete fungus Cryptostroma corticale.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It's a fairly recent discovery in Britain, apparently now common around London and probably under-recorded.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Synchita undata. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Synchita undata
What is Synchita undata?
Synchita undata is a species in the family Zopheridae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Synchita undata found?
Habitat: Often found on the trunks of Sycamore.
When is Synchita undata active?
Synchita undata: seasonal activity - All year round..
What is the life cycle of a Synchita undata?
The present opinion appears to be that it is associated with sooty bark disease on Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), caused by the ascomycete fungus Cryptostroma corticale.