Fire-Colored Beetles

Pyrochroidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Tenebrionoidea
Family: Pyrochroidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pyrochroidae: //paɪroʊˈkrɔɪdiː//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Dendroides concolor 40931009 by Ken Kneidel. Used under a CC0 license.

Dendroides concolor 140058801 by Claire Moxon-Waltz. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Dendroides canadensis 84388534 by christine123. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Dendroides concolor 18699235 by Nick Block. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Fire-Colored Beetle larva (10333864446) by Oregon Caves from Cave Junction, USA. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Dendroides canadensis 82824415 by Erik Erbes. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Pyrochroidae, commonly known as fire-coloured beetles, is a family of beetles found worldwide. They are primarily recognized for their vivid colors and unique mating behaviors involving cantharidin, a chemical from blister beetles. Fire-coloured beetles are not harmful to humans and have a significant role in their ecosystems as decomposers.

Physical Characteristics

Adults measure 2–20 millimetres (0.079–0.787 in); larvae reach up to 35 millimetres (1.4 in). Males of many species in the subfamily Pyrochroinae have comb- or antler-like antennae.

Identification Tips

Look for their characteristic comb- or antler-like antennae in males and their bright coloration.

Habitat

Larvae of Pyrochroinae are typically found under moist bark of dead trees, while adults can be found in various habitats, including shrubs and flowers, xeric habitats, and decaying plant material.

Distribution

Worldwide, with greater diversity at temperate latitudes. The family is represented in North America by four subfamilies.

Diet

Larvae are primarily fungivorous but may become cannibalistic under high population densities; adults may feed on cantharidin from blister beetles.

Life Cycle

The eggs laid by females are coated with cantharidin to protect them until hatching.

Reproduction

Males seek out blister beetles to acquire cantharidin, which is used to attract females. Mating occurs after females are impressed by the males' cantharidin display.

Ecosystem Role

Fire-coloured beetles play a role in the decomposition process and nutrient cycling as their larvae are fungivorous.

Economic Impact

Not considered harmful to humans; fire-coloured beetles are not known to have any significant economic impact.

Cultural Significance

Known for their unique mating habits but lack significant cultural references.

Health Concerns

Fire-coloured beetles are not considered harmful to humans, as they do not bite, sting, or secrete toxic chemicals.

Evolution

The family includes former members of the now-defunct family Pedilidae.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Some may mistakenly believe they are harmful due to their bright coloration, which is a cautionary signal rather than a direct threat.