Clypastraea lunata
(LeConte, 1852)
minute hooded beetle
Clypastraea lunata is a minute hooded beetle in the Corylophidae, measuring approximately 2 mm in length. It is found in North America, with records from eastern Canada (Nova Scotia, Ontario, Québec) and the United States. The inhabits fungi and mold in rotting wood and under bark on dead trees, where it feeds on fungal spores as both larva and .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Clypastraea lunata: /ˌklaɪpəsˈtriːə luːˈneɪtə/
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Identification
Minute hooded beetles in the Corylophidae are distinguished by having the concealed beneath a shelf-like projection of the pronotum. Clypastraea lunata is extremely small, approximately 2 mm in length, making it difficult to observe in the field without close inspection. The Clypastraea is most often associated with decaying wood , which may help distinguish it from other corylophid genera found on leaf surfaces, flowers, or bird nests.
Habitat
Fungi and mold in rotting wood and under bark on dead trees.
Distribution
North America. Specific records from Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Québec in Canada; also present in the United States.
Diet
Fungal spores, consumed by both larvae and .
Similar Taxa
- Other Corylophidae generaDistinguished by preference: Clypastraea is primarily found in rotting wood and under bark, whereas other occur on leaf surfaces, flowers, bark crevices, or in bird nests.