Atomaria wollastoni

Atomaria wollastoni belongs to a genus of minute beetles (typically 1–3 mm) characterized by compact, oval bodies and antennae with a weakly defined club. Species-level identification within Atomaria requires examination of male genitalia and other subtle morphological features; external characteristics alone are generally insufficient for reliable determination.

Members of the family Cryptophagidae are typically found in moist, decaying organic matter, moldy vegetation, under bark, and in association with fungi. Specific microhabitat preferences for A. wollastoni have not been documented.

Europe and Northern Asia (excluding China); North America. The species has a Holarctic distribution pattern.

As a member of the silken fungus beetle family, A. wollastoni likely contributes to nutrient cycling in decaying organic matter and fungal decomposition processes, though this has not been directly studied.

• Atomaria spp.Other species in the genus Atomaria are morphologically similar and require dissection or molecular analysis for definitive separation.
• Other CryptophagidaeThe family contains numerous small, fungus-associated beetles with convergent body forms; accurate identification relies on detailed examination of antennal structure, tarsal formula, and genitalia.

• silken fungus beetle
• Holarctic
• Coleoptera
• fungus-associated beetle

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
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