Wrinkled Bark Beetles

Rhysodidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Adephaga
Family: Rhysodidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Rhysodidae: //raɪˈsɒdɪdiː//

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Summary

Rhysodinae, commonly known as wrinkled bark beetles, are small beetles characterized by their elongate bodies and distinctive grooves. They inhabit moist decomposing wood and primarily feed on slime molds, playing a significant role in nutrient cycling within forest ecosystems.

Physical Characteristics

Elongate body size ranging from 5–8 mm; coloration ranges from reddish brown to black; thorax and elytra are deeply grooved lengthwise; head is grooved and constricted into a short neck; short, bead-like 11-segment antennae; short, strong front legs.

Identification Tips

Look for deeply grooved thorax and elytra; coloration can vary from reddish brown to black; size typically 5-8 mm.

Habitat

Moist rotten wood of hardwoods and conifers, often infested with slime molds.

Distribution

Present on all continents with forested areas; richest faunas found in New Guinea, Indonesia, the Philippines, and northern South America.

Diet

Primarily feed on slime molds (Myxomycetes).

Life Cycle

Adults live in moist wood, do not make burrows but squeeze between cell layers of decomposed wood; larvae live in short tunnels.

Ecosystem Role

Decomposers in forest ecosystems, facilitating the breakdown of organic material.

Evolution

Previously classified as a separate family (Rhysodidae), now treated as a subfamily (Rhysodinae) within Carabidae based on DNA analysis; shows evolutionary relationship with Paussinae and Siagoninae.

Similar Taxa

Carabidae