Dorcatominae
Dorcatominae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Bostrichoidea
- Family: Ptinidae
- Subfamily: Dorcatominae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dorcatominae: /dɔrˈkætəˌmaɪni/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Dorcatominae is a subfamily of beetles in the family Ptinidae, characterized by small size, specific antenna structures, and a diverse range of feeding habits including wood-boring and fungivorous species. The subfamily is the most species-rich in North America.
Physical Characteristics
Body short, often ball-like or moderately elongate, rarely cylindrical; maximum size is ~4 mm. Antennae usually have three terminal segments that are enlarged and triangular, rarely parallel-sided or branched. In two genera, the antennae are serrate, with unmodified terminal segments. Legs are retracted in grooves of the ventral surface.
Identification Tips
Look for small size and characteristic antennae structure, with the last segments typically triangular or serrate in certain genera.
Habitat
Found worldwide; many species are fungivores and breed in dry, non-woody plants.
Distribution
Globally distributed, with a focus on North America for diversity.
Diet
Includes wood-borers and many fungivores.
Life Cycle
Information on life cycle specific to taxa in this subfamily is limited.
Reproduction
Reproductive strategies are not well-documented for all genera.
Predators
Predation data for Dorcatominae is sparse and specific predators are not well-known.
Ecosystem Role
As decomposers and fungivores, they play a key role in nutrient cycling in their habitats.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collecting
- Pitfall traps
- Berlese funnel extraction
Preservation Methods
- Pinning
- Ethanol preservation
- Labels and documentation
Evolution
Previously considered part of Anobiidae; now recognized under the family Ptinidae.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some may confuse them with other small beetles due to similar size and habitat.
Tags
- Dorcatominae
- beetles
- Ptinidae
- insects
- arthropods