Tritoma angulata

Say, 1826

pleasing fungus beetle

Tritoma angulata is a of pleasing fungus beetle in the Erotylidae. It was described by Thomas Say in 1826. The species is found in North America, where and larvae feed on fungi. Like other members of the Tritoma, it exhibits aposematic coloration that serves as a warning to potential of its chemical defenses.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tritoma angulata: //traɪˈtoʊmə æŋˈɡjuːlətə//

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Distribution

North America.

Diet

Fungi. Both larvae and are mycophagous, feeding on fungal fruiting bodies.

Ecological Role

Fungivore. As a consumer of fungi, this contributes to nutrient cycling in forest by aiding in the decomposition of fungal fruiting bodies.

More Details

Taxonomic history

The was originally described by Thomas Say in 1826. The Tritoma is part of the Erotylidae, commonly known as pleasing fungus beetles due to their often bright and attractive coloration.

Chemical defense

Research on related in the Tritoma, such as T. bipustulata, has demonstrated that these beetles possess chemical defenses including aromatic compounds (alkenes, ketones, acids) released from glands and through . These compounds are repellent to ants and have antimicrobial properties, suggesting similar defensive capabilities in T. angulata.