Uleiota planatus
This record describes Uleiota planatus (species). Recorded family: Silvanidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 4.5-5.5mm. A conspicuously flat beetle, matt black to brown in colour, with antennae as long as the body. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Beneath the bark of recently dead broadleaf and coniferous trees. The larvae are believed to feed on fungi beneath the bark of newly dead trees. The adults may be carnivorous. Although it has been classed as nationally scarce, this species is now an established introduction that is expanding its range. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Silvanidae
- Genus
- Uleiota
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Beneath the bark of recently dead broadleaf and coniferous trees.
Seasonal Activity
All year.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae are believed to feed on fungi beneath the bark of newly dead trees. The adults may be carnivorous.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Although it has been classed as nationally scarce, this species is now an established introduction that is expanding its range.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Uleiota planatus. 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 Uleiota planatus (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Uleiota planatus
What is Uleiota planatus?
Uleiota planatus is a species in the family Silvanidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Uleiota planatus?
4.5-5.5mm. A conspicuously flat beetle, matt black to brown in colour, with antennae as long as the body.
Where is Uleiota planatus found?
Habitat: Beneath the bark of recently dead broadleaf and coniferous trees.
When is Uleiota planatus active?
Uleiota planatus: seasonal activity - All year..
What is the life cycle of a Uleiota planatus?
The larvae are believed to feed on fungi beneath the bark of newly dead trees. The adults may be carnivorous.