Rhizophagus minutus
Mannerheim, 1853
Rhizophagus minutus is a small in the Monotomidae, commonly known as root-eating beetles. The was described by Mannerheim in 1853. Two are recognized: R. m. minutus and R. m. rotundicollis. Available records indicate a North American distribution, though specific preferences and ecological details remain poorly documented.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Rhizophagus minutus: //raɪˈzɒfəɡəs maɪˈnjuːtəs//
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Identification
Identification of Rhizophagus minutus to level requires examination of morphological characters not reliably distinguishable from external sources. The R. m. rotundicollis, described by Bousquet in 1990, is distinguished by its rounded pronotum. Reliable identification typically requires reference to original descriptions or curated specimens.
Distribution
North America. Specific range boundaries and associations within this region are not well established in available literature.
Diet
Root-eating habits are inferred from the applied to Monotomidae, but specific feeding records for this are not documented.
More Details
Taxonomic status
GBIF lists the taxonomic status of Rhizophagus minutus as 'DOUBTFUL', indicating potential taxonomic uncertainty or need for revision.
Subspecies
Two are recognized: Rhizophagus minutus minutus Mannerheim, 1853 (nominate subspecies) and Rhizophagus minutus rotundicollis Bousquet, 1990, distinguished by pronotal shape.