Rhizophagus cylindricus
LeConte, 1866
Rhizophagus cylindricus is a small in the Monotomidae, commonly known as root-eating beetles. It occurs in the eastern and central United States, where it inhabits the bark of pine trees. Males are distinguished from females by their elongated .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rhizophagus cylindricus: /rɪˈzeɪfəɡəs sɪˈlɪndrɪkəs/
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Identification
The combination of small size (2–5 mm), narrow cylindrical dark reddish-brown body, widened bases of front legs, and clubbed distinguishes this . in length is pronounced: males have conspicuously elongated mandibles, females do not. Found under pine bark.
Images
Habitat
Under the bark of pine trees.
Distribution
Eastern and central United States: New York south to Georgia, west to Ohio and Alabama.
Diet
Unknown for this . The Rhizophagus has been reported to feed on fungi and dead insects.
Host Associations
- Pinus - Found under bark of pine trees; specific relationship not established
Ecological Role
Member of the subcortical (under bark) in pine trees; specific ecological function not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Rhizophagus speciesSimilar size, , and general ; identification requires examination of dimorphism and subtle structural characters
- Other MonotomidaeSmall size, clubbed , and subcortical habits shared with members; -level characters include widened front leg bases
More Details
Taxonomic note
The name Rhizophagus is also used for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (e.g., Rhizophagus irregularis), but these are unrelated organisms. R. cylindricus is a , not a fungus.