Phloeodes
Phloeodes
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Tenebrionoidea
- Family: Zopheridae
- Subfamily: Zopherinae
- Tribe: Zopherini
- Genus: Phloeodes
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phloeodes: //ˈfloʊ.iːˌoʊdiːz//
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Images
Summary
Phloeodes diabolicus, or the diabolical ironclad beetle, is a remarkable species known for its incredible durability and long lifespan. Native to parts of California and Baja California, it exhibits unique adaptations allowing it to thrive in its ecological niche as a decomposer of wood and fungi.
Physical Characteristics
Phloeodes diabolicus has a thick, densely layered, and interlocking exoskeleton that allows it to support a maximum force of 149 newtons. It has a flattened shape and low profile, which makes it difficult to crush. The elytra are fused and contribute to its durability, allowing the beetle to resist pressure and survive in drier climates.
Identification Tips
The beetle is approximately an inch long and has a unique shell structure that is tough and dense, difficult for collectors to pin without drilling due to its sturdiness.
Habitat
Phloeodes diabolicus is typically found in decaying wood, particularly underneath the bark of decomposing oak trees, where it prefers habitats with white rot fungi.
Distribution
Native to the California Floristic Province, specifically California and Baja California, with a range potentially extending north to southern Oregon.
Diet
The beetle is believed to feed on various fungi growing under rotting tree bark, with a preference for white rot fungi.
Life Cycle
Phloeodes diabolicus undergoes a holometabolous life cycle, which includes larval, pupal, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Reproductive characteristics are not explicitly mentioned, but the beetle exhibits sexual dimorphism with a waxy secretion on males thought to play a role in sexual attraction.
Predators
The tough exoskeleton provides significant protection, making Phloeodes diabolicus almost predator-proof against birds and lizards.
Ecosystem Role
As a decomposer, Phloeodes diabolicus plays an important role in breaking down decaying wood and aiding in nutrient recycling within its ecosystem.
Collecting Methods
- Drilling holes in the shell for pinning specimens due to extreme toughness
Preservation Methods
- Standard insect preservation techniques with care to avoid damaging the exoskeleton
Evolution
The evolution of its robust structure and flightlessness is theorized to be related to protection against crushing and moisture loss, allowing the species to thrive in drier climates and enhancing longevity.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
It is often thought that all beetles are capable of flight, but Phloeodes diabolicus is flightless due to its fused elytra.
Tags
- diabolical ironclad beetle
- Phloeodes diabolicus
- Zopheridae
- beetle
- decay
- decomposer