Lithophorus
Sharp, 1894
Species Guides
1Lithophorus is a of dry bark beetles in the Bothrideridae, established by Sharp in 1894. The genus contains a single described , Lithophorus ornatus. Members of Bothrideridae are generally associated with dead or dying wood and are often predatory or parasitic on other insects.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lithophorus: //lɪˈθɒfərəs//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Lithophorus can be distinguished from other bothriderid by characteristics of the genus-level typical of this group. The single L. ornatus may be recognized by features described in the original species . Definitive identification requires examination of morphological details and comparison with .
Habitat
As dry bark beetles in the Bothrideridae, in this are expected to inhabit dead or decaying wood, particularly dry bark environments. The specific microhabitat preferences of L. ornatus have not been extensively documented.
Distribution
The geographic range of Lithophorus is poorly documented. The type L. ornatus was described from material presumably collected in a region accessible to Sharp (British entomologist working primarily in the late 19th century), but specific locality data are not provided in available sources.
Ecological Role
As members of Bothrideridae, in this likely function as or of other insects inhabiting dead wood, contributing to nutrient cycling in forest . The specific ecological role of Lithophorus ornatus has not been directly studied.
Human Relevance
No direct economic or agricultural significance is documented for this . Like many specialized dead-wood beetles, it may serve as an indicator of forest conditions.
Similar Taxa
- Other Bothrideridae generaLithophorus shares the general body plan and preferences of dry bark beetles in the Bothrideridae. It can be separated from related by specific morphological characters established in Sharp's original description, though these require detailed examination.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Catalogue of Life entry for 'Dasyhormus lithophorus' refers to a flatworm (Platyhelminthes), not the Lithophorus. These are unrelated sharing only a similar epithet.