Tritoma

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tritoma: /traɪˈtoʊmə/

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Summary

Tritoma is a genus of pleasing fungus beetles known for their mushroom-feeding habits and distinctive appearance, widespread primarily in the Old World and having several species in eastern North America.

Physical Characteristics

Tritoma beetles are characterized by their black coloration, often with distinctive red spots, as seen in species like T. bipustulata.

Identification Tips

Look for small beetles that are usually black with red markings and are found in association with mushrooms.

Habitat

Tritoma species inhabit areas where mushrooms grow, including forests and woodlands, often near decaying wood.

Distribution

Holarctic; in North America, specifically in eastern regions with five species extending into Canada.

Diet

These beetles primarily consume euagaric mushrooms, feeding on them while concealed among the gills, and some feed on mycorrhizae associated with living roots.

Life Cycle

Lifecycle details are not specified, but typical beetle development includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, often associated with host fungi.

Ecosystem Role

They play a role in the decomposition process by feeding on fungi, thus contributing to nutrient cycling.

Collecting Methods

• Hand collection from fungal substrates
• Aspirators used in the field

Preservation Methods

• Pinning
• Drying

Evolution

Molecular analysis indicates that Tritoma may be paraphyletic, suggesting its classification could benefit from separation into two genera.

Similar Taxa

• Erotylidae
• Pleasant fungus beetles
• Other fungi-associated beetles

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Tritoma with other beetles in the Erotylidae family, as many share similar habitats and lifestyles.

Tags

• beetles
• fungus beetles
• Tritoma
• Erotylidae
• coleoptera