Antherophagus ochraceus
Melsheimer, 1844
silken fungus beetle
Antherophagus ochraceus is a ( ) to North America. It is one of the largest members of its family, measuring 4-5 mm as an . The exhibits a distinctive phoretic relationship with bumblebees, attaching to to reach their nests where develop.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Antherophagus ochraceus: /ænˌθɛrəˈfeɪɡəs oʊˈkreɪsiəs/
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Identification
Distinguished from similar Antherophagus and other by its larger size (4-5 mm versus typically smaller), uniform coloration without darker markings, golden , reduced size, and smooth curved shape.
Images
Habitat
occur on flowers in open . develop exclusively within bumblebee nests.
Distribution
North America. Documented from Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba.
Seasonality
active from May to September.
Diet
feed on pollen and nectar. consume matter within bumblebee nests including , , and debris.
Host Associations
- Bombus - and nesting site attach to legs, mouthparts, or of bumblebees to be transported to nests; develop in nests
Life Cycle
are laid in bumblebee nests. develop within the nest, feeding on nest debris. and occur within the nest or after .
Behavior
engage in , clamping onto bumblebees with their and remaining attached until the returns to its nest. Adults are found on flowers where they interact with bumblebees.
Ecological Role
Commensal inhabitant of bumblebee nests; contribute to decomposition of matter within nests.
Similar Taxa
- Other Antherophagus speciesA. ochraceus distinguished by larger size and uniform coloration; typically smaller and often with darker patterning
- Other CryptophagidaeMost cryptophagids are smaller than 4 mm and lack the combination of large size, entirely body, and golden
More Details
Phoresy mechanism
Attachment to bumblebees is achieved by clamping onto the 's body; do not release until reaching the nest