Triplax macra
LeConte, 1854
pleasing fungus beetle
Triplax macra is a small of in the . The species was described by LeConte in 1854 and is distributed across North America, with records from Canada (Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick) and the United States. Like other members of the Triplax, it is associated with fungal .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Triplax macra: /ˈtrɪplæks ˈmækrə/
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Habitat
Associated with , particularly mushrooms. Related in the Triplax, such as T. thoracica, have been observed on oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus spp.) and other fungal fruiting bodies.
Distribution
North America. Specific records include: Alberta, Manitoba, and New Brunswick in Canada; distribution extends throughout the United States. The has a transcontinental range in northern North America.
Host Associations
- fungi - Associated with fungal fruiting bodies, particularly mushrooms
Similar Taxa
- Triplax thoracicaSimilar size, preference for oyster mushrooms, and overlapping distribution in eastern North America. T. thoracica has an orange underside, while T. macra may have a dusky or black belly.
- Triplax flavicollisAnother small North Triplax with similar fungal associations
More Details
Taxonomic note
The Triplax is part of the , commonly known as . Members of this genus are typically small (3–6 mm), oval found on various . The specific epithet 'macra' (from Greek 'makros', meaning 'long' or 'large') may refer to body proportions relative to .