Anthribidae

Definition

A family of beetles in the superfamily Curculionoidea, commonly called fungus weevils. Distinguished from true weevils (Curculionidae) by straight, non-elbowed antennae that may exceed body length, a labrum visibly separated from the clypeus, and elongate maxillary palps. Larvae typically develop in fungal fruiting bodies, decaying wood, or plant detritus. The family comprises approximately 4,000 described species in four subfamilies (Anthribinae, Choraginae, Ulyaninae, Urodontinae).

Etymology

From the type genus Anthribus + -idae (family suffix).

Example

Unlike the elbowed antennae of true weevils, members of Anthribidae such as Euparius marmoreus bear long, thread-like antennae that project straight from the head, a trait useful for distinguishing fungus weevils in field collections.

Synonyms

• fungus weevils

Related Terms

• Curculionoidea
• Curculionidae
• Nemonychidae
• Brentidae
• Polyphaga
• Cucujiformia
• rostrum
• elbowed antennae

Usage Notes

The common name 'fungus weevil' reflects larval ecology but can mislead; adults are not necessarily mycophagous. The straight antennae provide the most reliable diagnostic character separating Anthribidae from Curculionidae. Formerly treated as a subfamily of Curculionidae in older classifications.