Melanophthalma pumila
(LeConte, 1855)
Melanophthalma pumila is a of minute brown scavenger beetle in the Latridiidae. First described by LeConte in 1855 under the name Corticaria pumila, it was later transferred to the Melanophthalma. The species belongs to a family of small beetles commonly associated with moldy or decaying plant material. Records indicate presence in multiple Canadian provinces.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Melanophthalma pumila: /mɛˌlænoʊˈfθælmə ˈpjuːmɪlə/
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Distribution
Recorded from British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and Quebec in Canada.
More Details
Taxonomic History
Originally described as Corticaria pumila by LeConte in 1855, this was subsequently transferred to the Melanophthalma. The basionym Corticaria pumila remains in taxonomic literature as the original name.
Family Characteristics
Members of Latridiidae, commonly known as minute brown scavenger beetles or plaster beetles, are typically small beetles that feed on fungal spores and . Many are associated with damp, moldy conditions in buildings or natural with decaying plant matter.