Litargus balteatus

LeConte, 1856

stored grain fungus beetle

Litargus balteatus, commonly known as the stored grain , is a small in the Mycetophagidae (hairy fungus beetles). It has been documented across multiple continents including North America, Europe, Oceania, and temperate Asia. As its suggests, it is associated with stored grain environments where fungal growth occurs. The is part of a group of beetles specialized in feeding on fungi, particularly in stored products and related .

Litargus balteatus by (c) Justin Williams, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Justin Williams. Used under a CC-BY license.Litargus balteatus by (c) Justin Williams, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Justin Williams. Used under a CC-BY license.Litargus balteatus (Tamaki) by S.E. Thorpe. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Litargus balteatus: //lɪˈtɑr.ɡəs bælˈtɛɪ.ətəs//

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Habitat

Associated with stored grain environments where fungal growth is present. The occupies human-modified related to grain storage and processing.

Distribution

North America, Oceania, Europe, and temperate Asia. Distribution records include the Azores islands (Faial, Flores, Graciosa, Pico, São Jorge).

Human Relevance

Considered a pest of stored products due to its association with grain storage facilities. The exploits fungal growth in stored grain, potentially indicating moisture or storage condition issues.

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Taxonomic Note

The was described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1856. The Litargus belongs to the tribe Mycetophagini within the Mycetophagidae.

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