Acaricoris

Species-level identification within Acaricoris requires examination of male genitalia and detailed antennal segmentation. The genus can be distinguished from other Aradidae genera by combinations of antennal segment proportions, pronotal structure, and abdominal sternite patterns. Acaricoris species are small, dorsoventrally flattened bugs with reduced wings (brachypterous or micropterous), a characteristic of the family.

Associated with decaying wood and fungal growth. Documented from under bark of dead trees and in rotting logs. Forest ecosystems with standing dead timber and coarse woody debris appear to be primary habitat.

Eight described species with records from eastern United States (Pennsylvania and surrounding regions), Florida, Haiti, and other Caribbean localities. Specific documented localities include Pennsylvania for A. ignotus and Florida for A. floridus.

Member of decomposer communities in forest ecosystems. Contributes to nutrient cycling in dead wood habitats through association with fungal decay processes.

• AradusLarger genus in same family with overlapping habitat preferences; distinguished by antennal segment ratios and male genitalic structure
• NeuroctenusAnother flattened aradid genus; differs in pronotal and abdominal margin structure

• aradidae
• flat bugs
• decomposer
• saproxylic
• wood-associated
• cryptic

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Notes on the Habitat and Distribution of Acaricoris ignotus Harris and Drake (Heteroptera: Aradidae)