Tetratoma fungorum
This record describes Tetratoma fungorum (species). Recorded family: Tetratomidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length around 6mm. Antennal club of 4 segments, elytra with scattered punctures but without punctate striae. Although quite distinctively coloured this species is superficially similar to Triplax aenea, another common beetle of Bracket Fungus. Can be quite numerous in or on wood-decay fungi, especially Birch Polypore. Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Tetratomidae
- Genus
- Tetratoma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Can be quite numerous in or on wood-decay fungi, especially Birch Polypore.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Tetratoma fungorum. 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 Tetratoma fungorum (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Tetratoma fungorum
What is Tetratoma fungorum?
Tetratoma fungorum is a species in the family Tetratomidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Tetratoma fungorum?
around 6mm. Antennal club of 4 segments, elytra with scattered punctures but without punctate striae. Although quite distinctively coloured this species is superficially similar to Triplax aenea, another common beetle of Bracket Fungus.
Where is Tetratoma fungorum found?
Habitat: Can be quite numerous in or on wood-decay fungi, especially Birch Polypore.
When is Tetratoma fungorum active?
Tetratoma fungorum: seasonal activity - All year round..