Sphindocis

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Tenebrionoidea
Family: Tetratomidae
Subfamily: Sphindociinae
Genus: Sphindocis

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sphindocis: //sfɪnˈdoʊ.sɪs//

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

Summary

Sphindocis is a monotypic genus of beetles in the family Ciidae, with Sphindocis denticollis as its sole species, identified by unique antennae and a particular pronotal margin.

Physical Characteristics

11-segmented antenna with no sensory tufts on the club, crenulate pronotal margin are diagnostic features.

Identification Tips

Look for a beetle with a distinct cranulate margin on the pronotum and a specific antenna structure.

Habitat

Associated with fruiting bodies of polypores such as Trametes and Poria.

Distribution

Found primarily in California.

Diet

Feeds on fruiting bodies of polypores.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in the decomposition process by interacting with fungal fruiting bodies.

Collecting Methods

Manual collection from habitats where polypores are present

Preservation Methods

Ethanol preservation
Pinning

Similar Taxa

Sphindociinae