Penthe pimelia
(Fabricius, 1801)
Velvety bark beetle
Penthe pimelia, commonly known as the velvety bark , is a of polypore fungus beetle in the Tetratomidae. It is distinguished from its Penthe obliquata by its uniformly dark coloration, including a dark scutellum. The species is found in North America, with documented occurrences in Canada.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Penthe pimelia: //ˈpɛn.θə paɪˈmiː.li.ə//
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Identification
The dark scutellum distinguishes Penthe pimelia from Penthe obliquata, the only other Penthe in North America, which has a distinct bright-orange scutellum. No other diagnostic features are documented in available sources.
Images
Appearance
Uniformly dark in coloration throughout the body, including the scutellum. The overall coloration gives the its , 'velvety bark .'
Habitat
Associated with polypore fungi, as indicated by its classification as a polypore fungus beetle. Specific microhabitat details are not documented.
Distribution
North America, with confirmed records from Canada including Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.
Diet
Associated with polypore fungi; specific feeding habits not documented beyond -level association.
Ecological Role
Member of the polypore fungus beetle guild, likely contributing to fungal decomposition processes.
Similar Taxa
- Penthe obliquataThe only other Penthe in North America; distinguished by its bright-orange scutellum versus the dark scutellum of P. pimelia.
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described by Fabricius in 1801.