Mycetophagus melsheimeri
LeConte, 1856
hairy fungus beetle
Mycetophagus melsheimeri is a of hairy fungus beetle described by LeConte in 1856. It belongs to the Mycetophagidae, a group of beetles associated with fungal . The species is known from North America, with records primarily from the United States. Limited observational data exist, with only seven records documented on iNaturalist.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Mycetophagus melsheimeri: /ˌmaɪsɪˈtɒfəɡəs ˌmɛlʃhaɪˈmɛri/
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Identification
As a member of Mycetophagidae, this likely shares the traits of a compact, oval body form and a somewhat hairy or pubescent . Specific diagnostic features distinguishing M. melsheimeri from such as M. punctatus or M. multipunctatus are not documented in available sources. Detailed examination of elytral punctation, antennal structure, and body proportions would be required for reliable identification.
Images
Distribution
North America, with confirmed presence in the United States. Distribution records from GBIF indicate occurrence in the AMN (America North) region.
Similar Taxa
- Mycetophagus punctatusA congeneric with overlapping North American distribution; both share the compact, hairy typical of the .
- Mycetophagus multipunctatusAnother North American ; distinguishing these requires detailed morphological examination not summarized in general sources.
More Details
Taxonomic placement
The is classified within the subgenus Ilendus of Mycetophagus, per the Catalogue of Life hierarchy.
Data limitations
Very few observational records exist for this , reflecting either genuine rarity, undercollection, or identification challenges in the field.