Cryptophagidae

Definition

A family of small beetles (order Coleoptera) commonly known as silken fungus beetles. Adults and larvae feed primarily on fungi, occurring in diverse microhabitats including rotting wood, stored products, and shed animal fur or feathers. Members range 1–11 mm, typically oval with a slightly constricted 'waist' between pronotum and elytra. The family is cosmopolitan and ecologically significant as decomposers and indicators of fungal activity.

Etymology

From Greek kryptos (hidden) + phagein (to eat), referring to their concealed, fungus-feeding habits.

Example

The genus Cryptophagus, within Cryptophagidae, frequently colonizes moldy grain stores and bird nests, where larvae graze on hyphal networks.

Synonyms

• silken fungus beetles

Related Terms

• Cucujidae
• Mycophagous
• Saproxylic
• Mycetophagidae
• Coleoptera
• Decomposer

Usage Notes

Distinguished from similarly mycophagous families (e.g., Mycetophagidae, Endomychidae) by body form and antennal structure; adults often found under bark or in fungal sporocarps. Not to be confused with Cryptophagidae used in older literature for certain bivalve mollusks (now rejected usage).